Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
4. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
7. Squeeze in lemon juice and toss.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
9. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
10. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.
11. Serve warm!

Tips:

• Add a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist.
• Swap lemon for white wine to make it restaurant-style.
• Use linguine or angel hair for a lighter texture.