Quick & Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A 20-Minute Valentine's Day Dinner

Craving a delicious and romantic dinner that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Look no further than this Quick & Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe – perfect for a cozy Valentine's Day meal or any night you desire a burst of fresh, flavorful Italian-inspired cuisine. This recipe boasts succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a vibrant garlic-infused sauce that's unbelievably simple to create. Forget complicated techniques and long prep times; this dish is designed for busy weeknights and spontaneous date nights alike.

With minimal ingredients and even less effort, you'll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes. The rich, savory sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, complementing the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. Ready to dive in and create this stunning dish? Let's get started with the simple step-by-step instructions below!

Tools Needed

  • Pan
  • Pot

Ingredients

  • Shrimp
  • Olive oil
  • Butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Shallots
  • Garlic
  • Pasta water
  • White wine: Optional
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Spinach
  • Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Shrimp and Veggies

  • Sauté shrimp in olive oil and butter. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove once pink.
  • Add cherry tomatoes and let them blister.
  • Add shallots, garlic, and a splash of reserved pasta water (or white wine).
Sauté shrimp in olive oil and butter. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove once pink.Add cherry tomatoes and let them blister.
Sauté Shrimp and Veggies

Step 2. Brighten and Finish the Sauce

  • Brighten with lemon zest and juice.
  • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, more salt and pepper, cooked shrimp, and spinach.
Brighten with lemon zest and juice.Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, more salt and pepper, cooked shrimp, and spinach.
Brighten and Finish the Sauce

Step 3. Combine Pasta and Shrimp

  • Add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
Add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Step 4. Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve with extra Parmesan cheese.

Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe

Tips

  • Save some pasta water for extra flavor!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 600-700
  • Fat: 25-35g
  • Carbs: 60-70g
  • Protein: 30-40g

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels for best results.

2. What kind of pasta works best?

Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine all work well. Choose your favorite!

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best served immediately, but you can cook the pasta and shrimp ahead and reheat gently. Add the sauce just before serving to keep it from becoming watery.


This Quick & Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe proves that a romantic and delicious meal doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the ease of preparation – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Now go ahead and impress your loved ones (or yourself!) with this simple yet stunning dish!