Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 8 oz spaghetti (or your favourite pasta)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Cook the pasta:

Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the garlic sauce:

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth (or wine), scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.

Cream it up:

Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.

Combine pasta and shrimp:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked shrimp back in and toss again, adding pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

Serve:

Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy!