Spicy Shrimp Spaghetti in 25 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 1–2 minutes less than the package directions until very al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once the butter foams, toss in the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not brown.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to collapse.
6. Using tongs, transfer the spaghetti directly from the pot into the skillet.
7. Pour in ¼ cup (60ml) of the starchy pasta water and the lemon juice, tossing to emulsify the sauce. Stir in the seared shrimp and chopped parsley. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.