Here’s the recipe for Pasta with Chili and Garlic Marinated Shrimp:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced (or 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Marinate the shrimp:
- In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, sliced chili peppers (or red pepper flakes), smoked paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the pasta:
- While the shrimp is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- Cook the shrimp:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp along with any leftover marinade to the pan. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Combine pasta and shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help combine the pasta and shrimp evenly. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
This dish is quick, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with the spice from the chili and the richness of the garlic-marinated shrimp. Enjoy your meal!
