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To create an unforgettable Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, the quality of ingredients is paramount. Let’s delve into the essential components that will elevate your dish to restaurant-quality.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Discover the mouthwatering allure of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta! This dish beautifully combines tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a rich, savory meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, it's versatile enough for any occasion. Elevate your dish with fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. Dive into this culinary delight that appeals to seafood and pasta lovers alike!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to spice preference)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus additional for garnish)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. Set the pasta aside for later.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant—watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.

      Cook the Shrimp: Increase the heat slightly and add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp have turned pink and are opaque throughout. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the same skillet, add the reserved cooked pasta along with about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta in the garlic butter sauce, mixing well to ensure the noodles are thoroughly coated. If you are using cherry tomatoes, add them at this stage and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until they soften and release some juice.

          Add Shrimp and Lemon: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the pasta. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top and toss all the ingredients together thoroughly. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.

            Serve: Divide the pasta among four bowls, generously sprinkle with the chopped parsley, and finish with a shower of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and fragrant.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  Optional Presentation Tips: For a touch of elegance, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a sprig of parsley on top and a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra pop of color and freshness.