Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: A Quick & Delicious Delight

Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, a delightful variation of the classic Italian dish, is a culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. “Aglio e Olio” translates to “garlic and oil,” which forms the base of this vibrant pasta. The addition of succulent shrimp elevates this dish to a satisfying and elegant meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating this restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

## Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

* **Quick and Easy:** This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and shrimp creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding vegetables, herbs, or different types of seafood.
* **Impressive:** Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes elegant, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable dish:

* **Spaghetti:** 1 pound (450g) – Opt for good-quality spaghetti for the best texture.
* **Shrimp:** 1 pound (450g), peeled and deveined – Use medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp work well.
* **Olive Oil:** ½ cup – Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
* **Garlic:** 6-8 cloves, thinly sliced – Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** ½ teaspoon (or more to taste) – These add a touch of heat to the dish. Adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Fresh Parsley:** ¼ cup, chopped – Adds freshness and a vibrant green color.
* **Lemon Juice:** 2 tablespoons – Brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Lemon Zest:** 1 teaspoon – Enhances the lemon flavor.
* **Dry White Wine (Optional):** ¼ cup – Adds depth of flavor. Substitute with chicken broth if you prefer.
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Reserved Pasta Water:** 1 cup – This is crucial for creating a creamy sauce.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional):** For serving – Adds a salty and savory element.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot
* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander
* Knife
* Cutting board
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio:

**1. Prepare the Shrimp:**

* If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the pan.
* Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. A light sprinkle is all you need.

**2. Cook the Spaghetti:**

* Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should be generously salted, as this flavors the pasta from the inside out. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water.
* Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, until al dente. “Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian, and it refers to pasta that is cooked through but still firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
* Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is essential for creating a creamy and emulsified sauce. Ladle the water into a heat-proof measuring cup and set aside.
* Drain the spaghetti in a colander.

**3. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:**

* While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate the pasta later.
* Add the thinly sliced garlic to the hot oil. Cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. A good tip is to keep the heat at medium-low, allowing the garlic to gently infuse the oil.
* Stir in the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.

**4. Cook the Shrimp:**

* Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
* If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. This will add depth of flavor to the sauce. If not using wine, skip this step.

**5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:**

* Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce.
* Pour in about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta and shrimp together, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated with the sauce. The starchy pasta water will help to emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy and cohesive texture. Add more pasta water, a little at a time, if needed, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
* Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. These ingredients add brightness and freshness to the dish.

**6. Season and Serve:**

* Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember that the pasta water is already salted, so be careful not to over-salt the dish.
* Serve the Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil can also add visual appeal and flavor.

## Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of the ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Use good-quality spaghetti and extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
* **Don’t Overcook the Garlic:** Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of the entire dish. Keep the heat at medium-low and stir frequently to prevent it from burning.
* **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:** Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and unappetizing. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
* **Use Reserved Pasta Water:** This is crucial for creating a creamy and emulsified sauce. Don’t skip this step!
* **Adjust the Seasoning to Your Liking:** Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.
* **Serve Immediately:** This dish is best served immediately, while the pasta is still warm and the sauce is creamy.
* **Warm the serving bowls:** If you’re serving this for guests, warming the serving bowls will keep the pasta hotter for longer.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** Add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

## Variations and Additions

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and additions you can try:

* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some cherry tomatoes, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
* **Use Different Seafood:** Substitute the shrimp with scallops, mussels, or clams.
* **Add Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Add Breadcrumbs:** Toast some breadcrumbs in olive oil and garlic and sprinkle them over the pasta for added texture.
* **Use Different Types of Pasta:** While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or penne.
* **Add a Splash of Cream:** For a richer and creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
* **Lemon Butter Sauce:** Enhance the lemon flavor by adding a pat of butter to the sauce at the end. This will create a rich and flavorful lemon butter sauce.

## Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side dish or two. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Garlic Bread:** A classic pairing that complements the garlic flavor in the pasta.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Caprese Salad:** A refreshing salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
* **Bruschetta:** Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
* **A Glass of White Wine:** A crisp and dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with this dish.

## Storing and Reheating Leftovers

* **Storing:** Store leftover Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 550-650 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g

*Note: This is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Conclusion

Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal! This dish is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, showcasing how a few simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can create something truly extraordinary. Buon appetito! And remember to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your personal preference. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own.

Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

## Recipe Card

**Shrimp Spaghetti Aglio e Olio**

A quick and delicious pasta dish with shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.

**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes
**Total time:** 30 minutes
**Serves:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound spaghetti
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
* 6-8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
* ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
* ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 1 cup reserved pasta water
* Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

**Instructions:**

1. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and opaque.
5. If using, pour in white wine and simmer for a minute.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with shrimp and sauce. Pour in ½ cup reserved pasta water and toss to coat. Add more pasta water if needed.
7. Stir in parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

**Notes:**

* Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
* Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
* Don’t overcook the garlic or shrimp.
* Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy!