Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta is one of those dishes that brings together simplicity and elegance in every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe combines tender shrimp with al dente bow tie pasta for a satisfying meal. The flavors blend beautifully with a light garlic and lemon sauce that’s both fresh and comforting.
We love how versatile this dish is—you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or add a touch of spice to suit your taste. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this flavorful, crowd-pleasing Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in our dinner rotation.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta Recipe, we rely on fresh ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Below is a breakdown of our key components.
Shrimp
We use fresh or thawed shrimp for a tender, juicy bite.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Optional: sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for a subtle kick
Pasta
The bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, provides a delightful texture that holds the sauce well.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Bow tie pasta (farfalle) | 12 ounces | Cooked al dente |
Sauce Components
Our light and zesty sauce combines garlic and lemon for a bright flavor profile that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup white wine (optional, but recommended for depth)
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
Seasonings and Garnishes
Seasoning is essential to elevate every bite. Fresh garnishes add color and a pop of freshness.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Equipment Needed
To create our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta recipe with ease and precision, we rely on the following essential kitchen tools:
- Large Pot: For boiling 12 ounces of bow tie pasta to an al dente texture. Ensure it has enough space to prevent sticking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta efficiently and keep it ready for combining with the sauce.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet for sautéing the shrimp and infusing the garlic and lemon sauce with flavor. This allows even heat distribution.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the pasta and shrimp mixture gently without damaging the delicate texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings to maintain flavor balance.
- Zester or Fine Grater: To extract fresh lemon zest, which adds brightness and enhances our pasta’s aroma.
- Garlic Press (Optional): Speeds up mincing garlic, allowing the batch to come together quickly without compromising flavor.
- Tongs: Helpful for tossing and serving the pasta with shrimp, ensuring every bite is coated evenly.
- Serving Bowls or Plates: To present our dish beautifully, topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil pasta to al dente |
| Colander | Drain pasta |
| Large Skillet | Sauté shrimp and create sauce |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stir pasta and shrimp gently |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Zester/Fine Grater | Extract fresh lemon zest |
| Garlic Press (Optional) | Mince garlic quickly |
| Tongs | Toss and serve pasta |
| Serving Bowls/Plates | Present the dish |
Using this equipment set guarantees we achieve the perfect texture and vibrant flavors that define our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta. Each tool supports smooth preparation, allowing us to focus on creating a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
Prep
Before we start cooking, proper Prep sets us up for a smooth process and a delicious Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta every time. Let’s get our shrimp cleaned, pasta ready, and sauce ingredients prepped to lock in maximum flavor and perfect texture.
Preparing the Shrimp
- Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best tender bite.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, removing shells and tails if preferred.
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sauté evenly.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance natural flavor.
- Keep shrimp chilled until ready to cook to maintain freshness.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, generously salted (about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water).
- Add 12 ounces of bow tie pasta to boiling water.
- Cook pasta until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later.
- Drain pasta using a colander and set aside.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bow Tie Pasta | 12 ounces | 10-12 minutes | Cook until al dente |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon/4 qt | — | For pasta water |
Making the Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic (3 cloves) and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Optionally add 1/4 cup white wine and cook until reduced by half for depth.
- Stir in juice and zest of 1 lemon for bright, zesty notes.
- Add 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth to create a light sauce base.
- Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Toss cooked shrimp into the sauce until just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine with drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan after plating.
| Sauce Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Sauté garlic and shrimp |
| Minced Garlic | 3 cloves | Flavor base |
| White Wine (optional) | 1/4 cup | Adds depth and acidity |
| Lemon Juice and Zest | From 1 lemon | Brightness and zing |
| Chicken Broth | 1/2 cup | Light sauce base |
| Crushed Red Pepper | To taste | Mild heat |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
Directions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta a delicious success. Each step focuses on building layers of flavor and achieving the perfect texture.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep warm.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil if needed.
- Add 3 cloves minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant — do not let it brown.
- Optional: Pour in 1/4 cup white wine, let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in 1/2 cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
- Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
- Allow sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to loosen sauce consistency.
Final Assembly
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add 12 ounces of al dente bow tie pasta into the skillet.
- Toss everything together with tongs until the pasta and shrimp are thoroughly coated.
- Remove skillet from heat.
- Sprinkle generously with 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley and 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while the dish is warm and vibrant.
| Step | Action | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking shrimp | Sear shrimp | 2-3 minutes each side, pink |
| Preparing sauce | Sauté garlic + add wine/broth | Do not brown garlic, reduce wine |
| Final assembly | Combine shrimp, pasta, sauce | Toss well for even coating |
| Garnishing | Add parsley and Parmesan | Adds freshness and umami |
By following these clear, precise steps, we ensure our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta Recipe shines with bright lemon flavor and perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta every time.
Serving Suggestions
To complement our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta, we recommend pairing it with dishes and sides that enhance its bright garlic and lemon flavors while maintaining a balanced meal. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
1. Light and Fresh Side Salads
A crisp, fresh salad cuts through the richness of the pasta, adding texture and brightness.
- Mixed greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette enhance the citrus notes in the dish.
- Add shaved fennel, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
2. Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia
To soak up the flavorful sauce, serve with warm, crusty bread:
- Garlic bread brushed with olive oil and toasted lightly for a golden finish.
- An herbed focaccia with rosemary complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
3. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Adding vegetables brings color and nutrients to the plate:
| Vegetable | Preparation Method | Reason to Pair |
|---|---|---|
| Asparagus | Lightly steamed | Crisp texture and mild flavor |
| Broccolini | Roasted with olive oil | Earthy and slightly bitter edge |
| Zucchini | Grilled | Adds a smoky, tender contrast |
4. Wine Pairing
A chilled glass of wine elevates the overall meal:
- Choose a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to match the lemony zest.
- A light, unoaked Chardonnay can also work for a creamy texture balance.
5. Garnish Enhancements
While fresh parsley and Parmesan are perfect, consider:
- Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch.
- A few red pepper flakes can add an extra kick of heat if desired.
“Serving our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta with these complementary sides ensures every bite is an experience — vibrant, balanced, and deeply satisfying.”
By combining these elements thoughtfully, we enjoy a meal that highlights the pasta’s delicate flavors and creates a well-rounded dining event.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta fresh and flavorful for later, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we can do it right:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the pasta al dente and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if preparing before assembly.
- Sear the shrimp separately and cool completely before refrigerating.
- Prepare the sauce fully but keep it separate from pasta and shrimp until ready to serve.
We recommend assembling just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. If we must combine ahead, toss the shrimp and pasta in the sauce and refrigerate in an airtight container.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store the combined Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta in a sealed container.
- Keep refrigerated up to 2 days to preserve taste and quality.
- Avoid storing for longer to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery and the pasta from absorbing the sauce excessively.
Freezing Tips
Shrimp pasta typically freezes poorly due to shrimp texture changes and sauce separation. If necessary:
- Store sauce separately in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze cooked shrimp and pasta separately in airtight bags.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, combining everything at serving time.
Reheating Instructions
For optimal reheating without losing flavor or texture:
- Warm the sauce gently in a skillet over low heat.
- Add shrimp and pasta, tossing just until heated through.
- Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Storage Duration Overview
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 2 days | Store in airtight container; best consumed soon |
| Freezing (Separate) | 1 month | Freeze sauce, shrimp, and pasta separately |
| Freezing (Combined) | Not recommended | Texture and flavor deteriorate significantly |
“For the best experience with our Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta, fresh preparation or quick refrigeration is key.“
Utilizing these tips will help us enjoy every bite just as intended—vibrant, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Conclusion
Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta offers a perfect balance of flavor and ease that fits any dining occasion. Its quick preparation and adaptable ingredients make it a reliable go-to meal when we want something satisfying without the fuss.
By mastering this recipe, we add a versatile dish to our culinary repertoire that impresses both weeknight crowds and special guests alike. It’s a delicious way to bring a touch of elegance to our table anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta?
You will need fresh or thawed shrimp, 12 ounces of bow tie pasta, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, optionally white wine and broth, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How long does it take to make Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta?
The dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Can I customize the Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta recipe?
Yes, you can add various vegetables or spices to suit your taste, allowing for versatile variations of the dish.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander, a large skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce, measuring cups and spoons, a zester, and tongs for serving.
How should I cook the shrimp for this pasta?
Sear the shrimp in a skillet until pink and opaque, which usually takes a few minutes on each side to ensure they are tender and fully cooked.
What’s the best way to cook the pasta?
Boil the bow tie pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
How do I make the sauce for Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta?
Sauté garlic in olive oil without browning it, optionally add white wine, then stir in lemon juice, chicken broth, and seasonings to create a light, zesty sauce.
What are good side dishes to serve with this pasta?
Light salads, garlic bread or herb focaccia, steamed or roasted vegetables, and a suitable wine pairing enhance the meal perfectly.
Can I make Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, cook the pasta al dente and toss with olive oil, cool and refrigerate shrimp separately, and prepare the sauce separately to maintain freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the combined dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze shrimp, sauce, and pasta separately to preserve texture and flavor.