Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz angel hair pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Instant Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp! This dish is not only quick to prepare, but the combination of tender pasta and succulent shrimp creates a delightful meal that’s bursting with flavor. We often make it on weeknights when I want something special yet easy. The garlic and fresh herbs bring everything to life, making each bite a little taste of heaven. I can guarantee that this recipe will become one of your favorites for its simplicity and mouthwatering result!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:02:36.842Z

When I first crafted this Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp, I wanted to highlight the natural sweetness of the shrimp while complementing it with a delicate pasta. I found that cooking the garlic just until fragrant allows it to infuse the dish without overpowering the other flavors. This method works wonderfully to create a balanced palette.

Beyond flavor, the technique of tossing everything together at the end creates a light sauce that clings perfectly to the angel hair. I always finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the dish. Trust me, this is a culinary experience you don’t want to miss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luscious garlic flavor harmoniously pairs with the sweetness of shrimp
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for any day
Light yet satisfying, perfect for dinner parties or family meals

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

When it comes to cooking angel hair pasta, the key is not to overcook it. This delicate pasta cooks quickly—usually within 3-4 minutes. To achieve the ideal al dente texture, keep a close eye on the pot. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite when you taste it. After draining, remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water; it’s perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency later.

Another helpful tip is to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. This not only flavors the pasta but enhances the overall taste of the final dish. If you happen to have some cooking water left over after draining, don't dispose of it right away! Adding a splash of the starchy water to your sauce can help it cling to the pasta, creating a more cohesive dish.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon

Garlic plays a vital role in this recipe, providing a rich and fragrant base that complements the shrimp beautifully. When sautéing the garlic, be attentive; it should become golden and fragrant, lasting only about 30 seconds over medium heat. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the temperature to ensure it doesn’t become bitter.

Lemon juice brightens the dish while balancing the rich flavors of the olive oil and shrimp. Squeezing fresh lemon over the finished plate not only adds freshness but also enhances the overall flavor profile. You can adjust the amount based on your preference; a little goes a long way in elevating the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with your Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp:

Ingredients

12 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to create a delicious and comforting meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the angel hair pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be cautious not to let it burn.

Combine and Toss

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Toss in the cooked pasta, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley and a sprinkle of lemon juice. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Your Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp is ready to be served. Enjoy a delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a lovely hint of heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have shrimp on hand, you can substitute it with other proteins such as scallops or even pieces of chicken breast, which should be cooked thoroughly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For a vegetarian option, consider replacing shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, which will absorb the garlic and lemon flavors beautifully.

Olive oil adds richness and depth here, but if you're looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil. The cooking process remains the same. Additionally, fresh parsley can be substituted with basil or cilantro, each imparting a unique twist to the dish without overshadowing the original flavors.

Serving and Storing

This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture and flavor. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of water or reserved pasta water to prevent the noodles from drying out; warm gently on the stove over low heat until heated through.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and shrimp separately and combine them just before serving. This method helps retain the pasta’s texture. You can also prepare a larger batch and freeze the shrimp separately, allowing for quick weeknight dinners with effortless reheating results!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What if I can’t find angel hair pasta?

You can substitute it with any long pasta such as spaghetti or linguine.

→ How can I make this dish more nutritious?

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and pasta ahead of time, then quickly reheat when you're ready to eat.