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Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe Easy Perfect Dinner with Fresh Basil

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A quick and easy shrimp pasta dish featuring a rich garlic butter sauce and fresh basil, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Juice of half a lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup (120ml) of pasta water for later. Set pasta aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat 1 pound (450g) shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Lower heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add 4 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir frequently, cooking until fragrant and golden but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water slowly, about 1/4 cup (60ml) at a time, tossing to coat.
  6. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons (30g) butter and juice of half a lemon. Toss to melt and distribute flavors evenly. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil over the pasta. Toss gently to combine.
  8. Serve immediately while warm. Optionally garnish with extra basil leaves or a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Cook garlic gently on medium or medium-low heat to prevent burning. Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve desired sauce consistency. Fresh basil should be added off heat to preserve aroma. Lemon juice balances richness and brightens flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp pasta, garlic butter shrimp, fresh basil pasta, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, weeknight meal, seafood pasta

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/savory-garlic-butter-shrimp-pasta-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner-with-fresh-basil/