Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss

Name: Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Recipes

I love whipping up this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss for dinner! It's a dish that brings together the rich flavors of sautéed shrimp, aromatic garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta in a matter of minutes. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels elegant enough for entertaining. I often make it on busy weeknights when I crave something that feels like a treat without a lot of fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:29:28.589Z

Making this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss has become a delightful routine in my kitchen. I remember the first time I tried it, I was amazed at how the garlic infused the shrimp, creating an irresistible aroma that filled the room. I usually opt for fresh shrimp; their sweetness really complements the garlic. I always use the biggest pan I have to give the shrimp space to sear perfectly, which locks in all the flavors.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water when draining the pasta. It acts as a great emulsifier when mixed back into the dish, providing a luscious sauce without needing heavy cream. This little addition enhances the overall texture and ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp paired with fragrant garlic and herbs
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
A light dish that still feels indulgent and satisfying

Perfecting Your Pasta

The key to achieving the perfect spaghetti texture lies in cooking it al dente, which means 'to the tooth' in Italian. This means the pasta should be tender yet still firm when bitten. To achieve this, follow the package instructions, but start testing the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. It should have a slight bite and not become mushy once you combine it with the sauce.

Make sure to generously salt the boiling water before adding the spaghetti; this is your only opportunity to infuse flavor into the pasta itself. A good rule of thumb is to use about a tablespoon of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water. This will enhance the dish's overall taste, ensuring that your pasta is flavorful and stands up beautifully against the garlicky shrimp.

The Hero Ingredient: Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this recipe, opt for large, fresh shrimp if possible, as they provide a satisfying texture and substantial bite. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can work just as well—just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can speed up the thawing process by placing the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps you avoid a watery dish that can result from cooking shrimp directly from frozen.

Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp; they only require about 3-4 minutes in the skillet until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and unpleasant. To check for readiness, look for that bright pink color and a slight curl; this is your cue to remove them from the heat immediately.

Enhancing Flavor with Wine and Herbs

The addition of white wine not only enhances the depth of flavor but also acts as a deglazing agent, lifting all the delicious bits stuck to the skillet. Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the shrimp without overpowering it. Let the wine simmer for a couple of minutes until it reduces and intensifies in flavor before mixing it with the pasta and shrimp.

Fresh parsley adds brightness to the dish, balancing the rich garlic and seafood flavors. For a twist, consider substituting basil or adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the entire dish. Adjust the amounts to your taste, as fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile in exciting ways.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Ensure everything is prepped ahead for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Deglaze and Combine

Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing everything together until well mixed. Stir in the fresh parsley.

Serve

Serve the Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss warm, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this delightful dish straight from the skillet or plate it up for a stunning presentation.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding freshly grated lemon zest to the dish just before serving. This brightens the overall taste and compliments the garlic beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, consider prepping your ingredients ahead. You can peel and devein the shrimp a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Similarly, you can mince the garlic and chop the parsley in advance and keep them stored separately. This way, when you’re ready to cook, everything is at your fingertips.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or chicken broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to overcooked shrimp.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss by incorporating seasonal vegetables. For example, diced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach can be sautéed along with the garlic to add freshness and color. This not only enhances the dish but also adds nutritional value by incorporating more vegetables.

For a creamy version, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese into the finished dish for added richness. This will transform the dish into a comforting, creamy pasta while still keeping the essential flavors intact.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be elegantly served in gourmet style, perhaps paired with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula will complement the flavors beautifully and add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A glass of the same white wine used in cooking can enhance the dining experience, making it feel like a special occasion even on a casual weeknight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking for the best results.

→ What type of pasta can I use?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

For best taste, this dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep the ingredients in advance.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.