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:

  1. 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.
  2. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of starchy pasta water before draining. Wait until you see the water is cloudy before scooping it out.
  3. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Note: Wet shrimp will steam, not sear, which prevents a golden crust.
  4. 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.
  5. Lower heat to medium. Add 1 tbsp butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  6. Stir in red pepper flakes and white wine, simmering for 2 minutes until the liquid has reduced by about half.
  7. Toss cooked spaghetti and seared shrimp back into the skillet.
  8. 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.
  9. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.