Succulent Shrimp Aglio e Olio Pasta
Succulent Shrimp Aglio e Olio Pasta
Aglio e Olio Pasta with Shrimp in a Rich Olive Oil Sauce
An easy and flavorful pasta dish that highlights the versatility of olive oil. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Ingredients- 2 servings of pasta (your favorite type)
- 3 large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 fresh perilla leaves (깻잎), thinly sliced into ribbons
- 2 Korean green chili peppers (청양고추), finely minced
- 1.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/5 tsp salt (for pasta water and seasoning)
- 4 Tbsp olive oil (preferably extra virgin for best flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide pan over low heat. Add 1.5 tablespoons of minced garlic and sauté gently, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance into the oil without browning. (Be careful not to burn the garlic! Sliced garlic is also a great option for a different texture and aroma.)
Step 2
Finely mince the 2 Korean green chili peppers. Once the garlic is lightly golden and fragrant, add the minced chili peppers to the pan and stir-fry together with the garlic. This combination will create a wonderfully aromatic and slightly spicy base for your pasta.
Step 3
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1/5 teaspoon of salt and 2 servings of pasta. Cook the pasta according to package directions, but drain it 2 minutes *before* the recommended time. (For example, if it says to cook for 8 minutes, drain it at 6 minutes.) This ‘al dente’ approach ensures the pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the sauce.
Step 4
Add the 25 prepared shrimp to the pan with the garlic and chili peppers. Increase the heat to medium-high and sauté quickly until the shrimp turn pink and are almost cooked through. Pour in about 5 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water (pasta broth). This starchy water will help emulsify the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
Step 5
Drain the partially cooked pasta and immediately add it directly to the pan with the shrimp, garlic, and chili. Add another 5 tablespoons of pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors and finish cooking in the delicious sauce.
Step 6
Plate the pasta beautifully. Garnish generously with the thinly sliced perilla leaves. The fresh, slightly minty aroma of the perilla leaves will add a delightful finishing touch. Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Aglio e Olio!
