Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta is a delicious and quick dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The flavors of garlic and butter blend beautifully with shrimp, while the angel hair pasta gives it a light and satisfying base. It’s a meal that is sure to impress your family or guests, yet it’s simple enough for anyone to make. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll find this dish is a fantastic go-to for any meal.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta
Ingredients
- 16 oz angel hair (I always use Barilla for the perfect texture)
- 1.5 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined with tails removed)
- 8 garlic cloves (freshly minced for best flavor)
- 3 tbsp butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.75 cup parmesan (freshly grated for a smoother melt)
- 1.5 cup spinach
- Juice from 2.5 lemons
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley
Directions
- Start by cooking the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Stir in the butter and let it melt, mixing it well with the shrimp.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the lemon juice and stir everything together.
- Toss the cooked angel hair pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the shrimp and sauce.
- Lastly, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and mix until incorporated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta
Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta hot from the skillet. You can plate it individually or serve it family-style in a large bowl. Adding a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a wedge of lemon on the side can enhance both the presentation and flavor. A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish!
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume the dish within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If you need to reheat it, do so gently on the stove or microwave to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or dill towards the end of cooking.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. If you prefer, you can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta?
This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and omit the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
