Description
Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Toasted Bread
Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp
(peeled and deveined)
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 pint cherry tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley
(for garnish)
4 slices baguette or crusty bread
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
Add the Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the shrimp, and cook for 3-4 minutes, letting them soften and release their juices. If using, pour in the white wine and stir, allowing it to reduce for 2-3 minutes.
Combine the Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and tomatoes. Add lemon juice, and mix everything together to coat the pasta.
Toast the Bread: While cooking the pasta, toast the slices of baguette in a separate pan or under the broiler until golden and crispy.
Serve: Plate the pasta, top with fresh parsley, and serve with the toasted bread on the side.
A vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick dinner with a side of crispy garlic bread!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed sequence. First, prep all ingredients: mince garlic, halve cherry tomatoes, chop parsley, and pat shrimp dry. Start boiling heavily salted water for pasta. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp in a single layer, season, and cook 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp to a plate. Add tomatoes to the skillet and cook until blistered. Deglaze with white wine, scraping up any browned bits, and let it reduce by half. Return shrimp and any juices to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this dish family-style in a large, shallow bowl for a rustic feel. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve the toasted bread on a separate board. For a complete meal, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic and lemon flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
This quick garlic shrimp pasta comes together in four key stages: 1) Cook pasta in salted boiling water. 2) Sauté garlic, then cook shrimp and set aside. 3) Cook tomatoes, deglaze pan with wine, and combine everything with lemon juice. 4) Toast bread separately. Toss pasta with sauce, garnish, and serve immediately with crispy bread on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them very dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
What’s a good non-alcoholic substitute for white wine? Use an equal amount of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white wine vinegar.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a gentle, pervasive heat.
Can I prepare any components ahead? You can mince garlic, halve tomatoes, and chop parsley ahead. However, cook the shrimp and pasta just before serving for the best texture.
What if my sauce seems too dry? Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Add it a splash at a time when combining to create a light, silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. They cook quickly and continue to cook off the heat.
- Browning the garlic during the initial sauté, which makes it bitter. Cook it gently just until fragrant.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently. It should taste like the sea, as this is your chance to season the pasta itself.
- Adding the pasta to the skillet without reserving any pasta water, which is key for saucing.
- Toasting the bread too early, causing it to become soggy. Time it to finish as the pasta is plated.
Conclusion
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a testament to how a few quality ingredients, prepared with simple techniques, can create an extraordinary weeknight meal. The balance of sweet shrimp, juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and bright lemon comes together in minutes. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a restaurant-worthy dish that feels both elegant and comforting. Don’t forget the final touch of toasted bread for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.