Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Shrimp (Midnight Spaghetti) 🍝🕛
A quick, garlicky, and luxe twist on the classic Italian midnight snack—al dente spaghetti tossed in golden garlic oil, chili flakes, and juicy shrimp. Ready in 15 minutes!
Ingredients (2 servings)
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8 oz (225g) spaghetti (or linguine)
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¼ cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
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6 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
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½ lb (225g) shrimp, peeled & deveined
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
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½ lemon, zested + juiced
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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Optional: Grated Parmesan, toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
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Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (1-2 mins less than package time). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté Garlic & Shrimp:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
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Add garlic and cook until fragrant and golden (1-2 mins)—don’t let it burn!
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Add shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook 2-3 mins per side until shrimp turn pink.
3. Combine & Finish:
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Toss in the cooked spaghetti, lemon zest + juice, and parsley.
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Add splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to emulsify the sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Serve Immediately:
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Top with Parmesan (if using) and extra parsley.
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For crunch, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs.
🔥 Pro Tips:
✅ Garlic control: For milder flavor, sauté whole cloves in oil, then remove before adding shrimp.
✅ Extra richness: Stir in 1 tbsp butter at the end.
✅ No shrimp? Use scallops, mussels, or keep it classic (just garlic + oil).
🍽️ Pair With:
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A crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc).
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A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
This dish is simple, elegant, and deeply flavorful—the ultimate late-night (or any-time) comfort food! 🌙✨
Variation: Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for a veggie boost! 🍅