Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes, this Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta is exactly what you need. Tender shrimp sautéed with fragrant garlic, tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and brightened with lemon zest and herbs—it’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. The balance of herbs and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes make every bite memorable. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that keeps cleanup minimal. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can master it in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta recipe combines a handful of classic ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The bowtie pasta, or farfalle, holds sauce and herbs in its ridges and little pockets, making each bite flavorful. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs the garlic and herb-infused olive oil perfectly. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, fresh note that lifts the entire dish and balances the richness of the olive oil. Dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes give complexity without overpowering the delicate seafood. It’s a recipe that feels gourmet but is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for busy nights or casual dinner parties.

Your Shopping Guide

• Bowtie Pasta (8 oz): Look for good-quality dried farfalle pasta. It’s sturdy and holds sauces well.
• Shrimp (1 lb): Choose peeled and deveined shrimp, preferably medium to large size for the best texture. Fresh or frozen works fine.
• Garlic (4 cloves): Fresh garlic cloves, minced finely for maximum flavor infusion.
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Use extra virgin olive oil for a fruity, rich base.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Adds a warm and slightly bitter herbal note.
• Dried Basil (1 tsp): Sweet and aromatic, complements shrimp beautifully.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp): For a gentle kick of heat; adjust to taste.
• Lemon (1): You’ll need both zest and juice to brighten the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish—adds color and a fresh herbal finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For boiling the bowtie pasta.
• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: To cook the shrimp and toss everything together.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Microplane or Zester: To zest the lemon finely.
• Garlic Press or Knife: To mince the garlic.
• Wooden Spoon or Tongs: For stirring and mixing the pasta and shrimp.
• Citrus Juicer (optional): Makes extracting lemon juice easier.

Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, pat 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp dry. This helps them sear nicely. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Herbs

Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and slightly opaque, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet with the garlic herb oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture feels dry. Return the shrimp to the pan.

Step 6: Add Lemon Zest and Juice

Zest and juice one lemon over the pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss everything together well to combine and infuse the bright citrus notes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a seasonal crunch.
• Summer: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
• Fall: Stir in sautéed mushrooms and a handful of spinach for earthy undertones.
• Winter: Add roasted red peppers and kale for a hearty, warming meal.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Don’t overcook shrimp; they turn rubbery quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Reserve pasta water—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles and adds silkiness.
• For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the garlic and herb oil before cooking shrimp.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a few tablespoons of heavy cream after adding the pasta.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference; omit for a milder dish.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as shrimp can become tough. For meal prep, consider prepping the shrimp and pasta separately and combining just before serving to maintain texture.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What pasta can I substitute for bowtie pasta?

Feel free to swap bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or linguine. Each holds sauce well and complements the shrimp and herb flavors nicely. For a similar look and bite, penne is a great alternative.

Is this recipe spicy?

This dish has a subtle heat from the red pepper flakes, but it’s very mild. You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer no spice at all.

Can I add cream or cheese to make it richer?

Yes! Stir in some cream or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy version. For a delicious variation, check out this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne recipe that features a luscious cream sauce.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne – a rich and indulgent pasta that’s quick and satisfying.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine – bright, buttery, and perfect for seafood lovers.
• Try adding sautéed spinach or kale to your shrimp pasta for extra greens.
• Substitute shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Final Bite

This Garlic Herb Shrimp Bowtie Pasta is a fantastic way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your table with minimal fuss. The marriage of garlic, herbs, lemon, and shrimp creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe delivers every time. Serve it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the garlicky oil—your taste buds will thank you!

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