Spaghetti with Shrimp

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp and Sauce:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the spaghetti. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
3. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and butter, letting the butter melt completely. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approx. 1/4 of the recipe):

• Calories: 480
• Total Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 28g

Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Substitute zucchini noodles for spaghetti for a low-carb version.
• Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula to the sauce for extra greens.
• Use pre-cooked shrimp for an even quicker preparation, but reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Enjoy this delicious spaghetti with shrimp recipe, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make!