Go Back
A plate of easy garlic shrimp pasta garnished with parsley and lemon.

Shrimp Aglio e Olio

A classic Italian pasta dish that combines garlic, red pepper flakes, and succulent shrimp for a quick and satisfying meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base
  • 500 g Spaghetti Chewy and hearty, forms the perfect base.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 4 tbsp Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for rich flavor.
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced) The star ingredient, infuses the oil with flavor.
  • 1-2 tsp Chilli / Red Pepper Flakes Adds heat and balances the richness of oil.
  • 500 g Shrimp (peeled and deveined) Provides a delightful texture.
  • 1-2 tsp Lemon Juice (to taste) Bright acidity enhances flavors.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Adds creamy and nutty flavor.
  • ½ cup Parsley (finely chopped) Offers a fresh herbaceous note.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat, then add olive oil and sliced garlic.
  4. Sauté the garlic until golden and aromatic, being careful not to burn.
  5. Add red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds.
  6. Add the shrimp, cooking until pale pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Season with salt and pepper, and squeeze in fresh lemon juice.
  8. Add a few tablespoons of pasta water to the shrimp mixture before removing from heat.
  9. Transfer spaghetti directly into the skillet and toss to combine.
  10. Add grated Parmesan and chopped parsley; mix until well coated.
  11. Adjust seasoning as necessary and serve immediately.

Notes

For a more intense garlic flavor, increase garlic cloves. Experiment with seafood variations. Reserve pasta water before draining.