Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti

Weeknight Wonder: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Calling all busy home chefs and seafood enthusiasts! This Garlic Shrimp Scampi is about to become your weeknight hero. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all nestled over perfectly cooked pasta. This flavorful and family-friendly dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

• Incredibly Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a cooking time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you're short on time.
• Family-Approved Flavor: The combination of succulent shrimp, a savory garlic butter sauce, and light and airy spaghetti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or incorporate your favorite fresh herbs for an extra flavor dimension.

Ingredients for Your 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Scampi Adventure:

• 1 pound medium shrimp (deveined and tails removed for easier eating)
• 1 pound spaghetti noodles (adjust based on your family's appetites)
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (depending on your garlic passion!)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (creates the base for the flavorful sauce)
• Extra virgin olive oil (a drizzle to prevent sticking)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs for added complexity)
• Freshly ground black pepper (essential for flavor development)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Salt (to taste)
• Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or basil, for an extra layer of flavor)

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Spoon
• Tongs (optional, for removing shrimp tails)
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Guide to 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Scampi Bliss:

1. Pasta Perfecto: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs (optional) to the pot for additional flavor. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (tender yet firm to the bite). Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Shrimp Sizzle: While the pasta cooks, wash and devein the shrimp. If you prefer, remove the tails for easier eating using your fingers or kitchen tongs.
3. The Garlicky Goodness: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and slightly curled. This indicates that they are cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan, cook the shrimp in batches if necessary.
4. Garlic Power: Now comes the flavor magic! Add the minced garlic to the pan with the cooked shrimp and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be mindful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
5. The Big Combine: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Toss everything together to combine the flavors.
6. Saucy Perfection: Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. You want the sauce to be slightly creamy and coating the pasta without being too watery.
7. Fresh Touch (Optional): For an extra burst of flavor and color, garnish your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
8. Dinnertime Delight: Serve your delicious 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Scampi hot and enjoy! This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.

Tips:

• For a richer sauce, use a combination of olive oil and butter.
• If the shrimp are large, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Want to add some vegetables? Try tossing in steamed broccoli or cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Enjoy this quick