Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish

Name: Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast & Easy Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up this Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish when I need a flavorful meal in a hurry. With succulent shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a zesty garlic sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. The bright flavors are complemented by a hint of lemon, making it refreshing yet satisfying. We've made this for casual weeknight dinners and special occasions alike, and it never disappoints. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:26:27.978Z

When I first tried making this Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish, I wanted something light yet satisfying that could be ready under 30 minutes. The combination of sautéed garlic, shrimp, and fresh herbs transforms the everyday pasta into a culinary delight. I discovered that adding a splash of white wine not only deepens the flavor but also creates a lovely sauce that clings to the shrimp.

One of my favorite tips is to toss the pasta with a bit of the starchy cooking water just before serving. This little trick helps the sauce adhere better and adds a silkiness to the dish, elevating it beyond a simple meal. Trust me; it’s the secret sauce!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy for busy weeknights
Fresh and zesty flavors that pop
Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta is crucial for this dish. Spaghetti or linguine are both great options because their shape helps hold onto the zesty sauce. Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente, providing a perfect bite that pairs well with the succulent shrimp. Make sure to taste the pasta a minute before the package suggests to catch that ideal texture.

Using fresh shrimp elevates the dish significantly. Look for shrimp that are firm and moist; they should have a slight sheen. Avoid frozen shrimp if possible, but if that’s your only option, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve that coveted sear and prevent excessive moisture in the pan.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Cook it just until fragrant; about 1 minute should suffice over medium heat. If it starts to brown, lower the heat slightly. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can add the garlic after the shrimp, allowing it to infuse without intense heat.

To create a flavorful sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully, don't forget to utilize the reserved pasta water. This starchy liquid not only helps thicken the sauce but also enhances the flavor. Add it a little at a time, stir well, and observe how it transforms the dish into a cohesive, glossy finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking, as this recipe comes together quickly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious shrimp pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and sauté until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Finish

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, then bring to a simmer. Add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for the best flavor.

Enjoy your Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish while it's hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using garlic-infused olive oil or adding some cherry tomatoes to the skillet when cooking the shrimp.

Storing and Reheating

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store the shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The shrimp can dry out if reheated too aggressively, so I recommend warming it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to keep it moist and help revive the flavors.

This dish is not suitable for freezing, as the shrimp's texture deteriorates. However, you can prepare the garlic sauce and pasta in advance, storing them separately. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the shrimp fresh and combine everything for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

While this Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish is fantastic on its own, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a balanced meal. Fresh greens with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the dish's flavors beautifully and add a refreshing crunch.

For those wanting to enhance the dish, feel free to toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. These not only add color but inject additional nutrients and sweetness, creating a more rounded dish without much extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and shrimp in advance and store them separately in the fridge.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, using gluten-free pasta will work well in this recipe.