Aglio E Olio With Shrimp

Ingredients

500 g / 1lb spaghetti

4 tbsp olive oil

4-6 garlic cloves thinly sliced

1-2 tsp chilli / red pepper flakes

500 g (1lb) shrimp peeled and deveined

½ cup grated Parmesan

½ cup parsley finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

Step 2:

Heat a large frying pan/skillet over medium-high heat then add the oil and garlic.

Add the chilli flakes and toast until the garlic starts to turn golden.

Step 3:

Add the shrimp and cook until pale pink and opaque throughout.

Season with salt and pepper and add lemon juice.

Add a few tablespoons of the pasta’s cooking water and remove from the heat.

Step 4:

Once the pasta is cooked, carefully transfer the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the shrimp with a pair of tongs.

Add a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water and toss to emulsify.

Step 5:

Add the Parmesan and parsley and continue tossing until the pasta is well coated.

At this point, you can add more water if you think the pasta needs a little extra sauciness.

Taste and season to taste if necessary then serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes:

Classic Italian Dish: Aglio e Olio, which translates to garlic and oil, is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and bold flavors. Adding shrimp to this dish elevates it to a more substantial meal, perfect for seafood lovers.

Key Ingredients: The key ingredients in this recipe are spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Cooking the Pasta: Cooking the spaghetti until al dente is crucial to the success of this dish. Al dente pasta has a firm texture, which pairs well with the silky sauce and tender shrimp.

Infusing Flavor: Infusing the olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes creates a fragrant and flavorful base for the dish. Toasting the garlic until golden adds depth of flavor to the sauce.

Cooking the Shrimp: Cooking the shrimp until pale pink and opaque ensures that they are cooked through and tender. Seasoning them with salt, pepper, and lemon juice adds brightness and balances the flavors of the dish.

Emulsifying the Sauce: Adding pasta cooking water to the pan helps emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy and cohesive texture that coats the spaghetti evenly.

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Finishing Touches: Finishing the dish with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley adds richness and freshness. Extra Parmesan can be served on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy kick.

Customization: This recipe can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. Adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan according to taste. Additionally, other seafood or vegetables can be added or substituted for the shrimp to create variations of the dish.

Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served as a main course for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complete the meal. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to please both family and guests alike.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for this recipe.

Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but be mindful not to overcook them when reheating in the pan to avoid toughness.

How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes?

The spiciness level can be adjusted based on personal preference.

Start with a smaller amount of chili flakes if you prefer a milder flavor and adjust accordingly.

Can I substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley?

While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor and color, you can use dried parsley as a substitute.

However, adjust the quantity as dried parsley tends to have a more concentrated flavor.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep an eye on the garlic while toasting it in the oil.

Stir frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it starts to turn golden to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

Is it necessary to add pasta cooking water to the sauce?

Adding pasta cooking water helps emulsify the sauce, creating a silky texture that coats the spaghetti evenly.

However, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can skip this step or add less water.

Can I omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

The dish will still have plenty of flavor from the garlic, shrimp, and herbs.

Can I make this dish in advance and reheat it later?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the Aglio e Olio with Shrimp in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Add a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

What can I serve as a side dish with this recipe?

A simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread would complement this dish nicely.

The light, refreshing flavors of the salad or the crunchiness of the bread would balance the richness of the pasta.

Can I customize this recipe with additional vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your liking.