Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Food Studio

When I first tried making Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how vibrant the flavors were. The delicate pasta paired perfectly with succulent shrimp, all bathed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil. It's become one of my go-to recipes for impressing guests or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home. In just about 20 minutes, you can savor this dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:45:36.361Z

My experience with Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp has been a delicious journey. I remember the first time I prepared it; the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil filled my kitchen, and I knew I was in for something special. To get that perfect shrimp texture, I learned to pay attention and remove them from the pan just as they turned pink, ensuring they remained tender and juicy.

Each time I make this dish, I play around with the garlic and lemon zest, adjusting to my taste. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end brings a vibrant color and fresh taste that elevates the entire meal. It’s a wonderful reminder of how simple ingredients can create something so delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners.
A delightful fusion of flavors with garlic and shrimp.
Light yet satisfying, ideal for any occasion.

Cooking with Care

When preparing Angel Hair Pasta, timing is crucial to achieving the perfect texture. Since this pasta cooks quickly, ensure you have everything else prepped beforehand, including peeling and deveining the shrimp. This way, you can remove the pasta from boiling water as soon as it reaches al dente, typically in just 3-4 minutes. Overcooked angel hair can become mushy, losing its delightful texture that complements the shrimp beautifully.

The key to marrying the pasta and shrimp is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining it. This starchy liquid can be added to the skillet later on to create a more cohesive sauce. Just a couple of tablespoons mixed in will help everything cling together and give the dish a glossy finish.

Shrimp Secrets

When selecting shrimp, size matters! Medium to large shrimp (about 21-25 per pound) are ideal for this recipe, as they provide a satisfying bite without overpowering the delicate pasta. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear; excess moisture can prevent browning.

While cooking the shrimp, be attentive to the heat. A medium flame allows the shrimp to turn pink and opaque without overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. If, during cooking, you notice that the garlic is beginning to brown, reduce the heat slightly to maintain its flavor without bitterness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious plate of Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain 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, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss in the lemon juice and zest, mixing everything together until well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal while it's hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the dish further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes alongside the garlic for an extra kick. The heat complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully and adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Additionally, for a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the end for richness.

Herbs can also play a significant role in enhancing flavors. While fresh parsley is a classic garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro. Their fresh notes can brighten the dish and give it a unique twist, especially when paired with the zesty lemon.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To avoid the pasta becoming overly soft, try to keep the shrimp separate if possible. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to revive the dish's flavor and moisture.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the shrimp separately if you anticipate leftovers. Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat in the skillet, adding fresh garlic for new flavor enhancement.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

For the best taste, it's recommended to enjoy it fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What other pasta can I use?

You can substitute angel hair with spaghetti or linguine if you prefer.