Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1 tbsp (15g) kosher salt
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tbsp (57g) unsalted butter
- 5 cloves (25g) garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp (3g) red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine
- 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Note: This usually means 1-2 minutes less than the box says.
- Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of starchy pasta water before draining. Wait until you see the water is cloudy before scooping it out.
- Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Note: Wet shrimp will steam, not sear, which prevents a golden crust.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium high heat. Sear shrimp in a single layer for 1-2 minutes per side until they are opaque and just turning pink, then remove to a plate.
- Lower heat to medium. Add 1 tbsp butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in red pepper flakes and white wine, simmering for 2 minutes until the liquid has reduced by about half.
- Toss cooked spaghetti and seared shrimp back into the skillet.
- Stir in 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Toss vigorously until the sauce looks glossy and clings to the pasta.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.