Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Primavera

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, creamy, and savory dish that combines succulent shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce. This pasta dish offers a perfect balance of seafood, veggies, and a light yet creamy garlic butter sauce, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful – A garlic butter sauce with Parmesan and cream adds deep, savory flavors.
• Colorful and Nutritious – Loaded with fresh asparagus, peas, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it great for busy nights.
• Perfect for All Occasions – Fancy enough for a dinner party, but easy enough for a weekday meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz bowtie or linguine pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup asparagus, chopped
• 1/4 cup green peas
• 1/4 cup yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the shrimp – Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Cook the shrimp – Add the shrimp to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables – In the same pan, add olive oil, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Make the sauce – Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. Combine everything – Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the pan, tossing to coat evenly.
7. Serve hot – Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Lighter Version – Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a splash of chicken broth.
• Extra Cheesy – Stir in more Parmesan or a bit of mozzarella for a cheesier texture.
• Zesty Lemon Twist – Add fresh lemon juice or zest for a bright citrusy flavor.
• Spicy Option – Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for added heat.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep it from drying out.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Bowtie (farfalle) or linguine are great choices, but penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti also work well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque—overcooking makes them tough.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes before adding the pasta, or mix in a little more Parmesan.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can reduce or omit them for a milder taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and veggies in advance and cook everything when ready to eat.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to warm through—overcooking will make them chewy.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Primavera is a rich, vibrant, and satisfying meal that brings together the best of seafood, pasta, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try different variations and enjoy this restaurant-quality meal at home!