A delightful seafood pasta dish with a light yet flavorful sauce, shrimp linguine pasta is a simple yet sophisticated meal that brings together tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a rich, buttery sauce. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare while offering a restaurant-quality dining experience. The combination of delicate pasta, plump shrimp, and a luscious white wine sauce creates a beautifully balanced dish that is both comforting and elegant.
Ingredient Breakdown
The success of shrimp linguine pasta depends on selecting the right ingredients and using them effectively. Medium-sized shrimp provide a juicy, succulent bite without overwhelming the dish. Linguine is the ideal pasta choice, as its flat, ribbon-like structure holds onto the buttery, garlicky sauce perfectly. Butter and white wine form the base of the sauce, creating a silky texture that coats every strand of pasta, while garlic and Parmesan add depth and umami. Fresh parsley enhances the dish with a hint of herbal brightness, and a final seasoning of salt and freshly ground black pepper ties everything together.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
Bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil ensures the linguine absorbs flavor from the start. Cooking it until al dente, about 11 minutes, helps maintain the right texture, preventing it from becoming too soft when combined with the sauce. Draining the pasta properly while reserving a bit of cooking water allows for better sauce integration later.
Preparing the Sauce
Melt butter over medium-low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown too quickly. Stir in the white wine and minced garlic, letting the mixture simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld. Adding grated Parmesan during this stage enriches the sauce with a nutty, umami depth, while freshly chopped parsley provides a refreshing contrast. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste, balancing the flavors to perfection.
Cooking the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Cooking them over medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes ensures they turn pink and opaque while retaining their tenderness. Stirring occasionally allows for even cooking, and removing them from heat at the right moment preserves their juicy texture.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the shrimp is cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Tossing the drained linguine into the pan with the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors fully. Stirring gently ensures an even coating of the buttery, garlicky sauce over every strand, with the shrimp distributed evenly for a well-balanced dish.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
How to prevent shrimp from becoming chewy:
Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, avoiding high heat for prolonged periods.
Adjusting the sauce’s consistency based on preference:
Add reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce or increase Parmesan for a creamier texture.
Best ways to enhance the dish with additional herbs or spices:
Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, while lemon zest can brighten the flavors.
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, just ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What type of white wine works best for the sauce?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, enhances the sauce without overpowering it.
How do I store and reheat leftovers without drying out the shrimp?
Store in an airtight container and reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
Can I substitute another type of pasta for linguine?
Yes, spaghetti or fettuccine work well as alternatives.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, offering a crispy contrast to the creamy sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance. For beverages, a glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the dish beautifully. If serving as part of a multi-course meal, start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or a seafood-based antipasto.
Shrimp linguine pasta is a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire, offering a balance of rich flavors and simple preparation. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it brings restaurant-quality flavors to the table with minimal effort. Experiment with different seasonings or add personal touches to make this dish uniquely your own, ensuring a delightful meal every time.
Ingredients
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound uncooked linguine pasta
1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons white wine
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Gather all the ingredients and have them prepared for easy cooking.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the white wine, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.
Divide the cooked pasta evenly among eight bowls. Spoon the shrimp and sauce over the top, ensuring each portion is well-coated.
Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over each serving. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Shrimp Linguine Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 pound uncooked linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons white wine
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients and have them prepared for easy cooking.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the white wine, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.
- Divide the cooked pasta evenly among eight bowls. Spoon the shrimp and sauce over the top, ensuring each portion is well-coated.
- Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over each serving. Serve immediately and enjoy.
