Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti
Shrimp
- 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce and Garnish
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups baby arugula or spinach
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Season the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Spices: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring frequently until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir occasionally as the shrimp cook until they turn pink and are opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Greens: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the cooked pasta, baby arugula (or spinach), and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the arugula begins to wilt, about 2 minutes.
- Finish with Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine and warm through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Substitute baby spinach for arugula if desired.
- For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian