Introduction
has been my absolute lifesaver since moving to my tiny downtown apartment last year. Oh my goodness, the way the garlic-infused oil hugs each strand of pasta... pure heaven! I first stumbled upon this recipe during Ramadan when I needed something quick yet special for iftar. Now it's my go-to for everything from lazy Sunday dinners to impressing unexpected guests. The best part? It's halal-certified comfort food that comes together faster than my delivery apps can load – and trust me, in my kitchen, that's saying something!
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes (I promise!)
Ingredients
- 1 lb halal shrimp, peeled and deveined (frozen works too - just thaw first!)
- 1 lb spaghetti (or linguine if that's what's in your pantry)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (yes, really - don't skimp!)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional but sooo worth it)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta water (trust me on this one)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil - y'know, the kind that sounds like a mini waterfall in your kitchen. Add a generous handful of salt (the water should taste like the sea). Drop in your spaghetti and set a timer for 1 minute less than package directions.
Step 2
While pasta's doing its thing, heat that olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and - this is crucial - don't let it brown! We want golden, fragrant bits that'll make your whole apartment smell like an Italian grandma's kitchen... not bitter burnt pieces. About 2 minutes should do it.
Step 3
Pat those shrimp dry (seriously, don't skip this step) and add them to the garlic oil. They'll turn pink and curl into perfect little C's in about 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. The sizzle sound? That's music to my ears!
Step 4
Before draining pasta, scoop out 1/2 cup of that starchy cooking water - it's liquid gold! Drain pasta and toss it right into the shrimp pan. Add the pasta water, lemon juice, and parsley. Easy 30-Minute Halal Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe Toss everything together until it's glossy and gorgeous - about 1 minute. The sauce should coat each strand like a silky hug
