Ingredients for Garlic Seafood Pasta

• 1 pound linguine or spaghetti: The essential base for soaking up the delicious garlic seafood pasta sauce. Don’t overcook; al dente is key!
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides succulent protein and a sweet, tender bite. Choose wild-caught for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 pound sea scallops, patted very dry: Adds delicate sweetness and a luxurious texture. Ensure they are dry before searing for a perfect crust.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: The foundation for sautéing aromatics and searing seafood. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the sauce. Essential for that irresistible buttery goodness.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base for the sauce. Low-sodium allows you to control the seasoning precisely.
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons): The star of this dish, providing pungent, aromatic depth. Freshly minced garlic is absolutely non-negotiable for flavor.
• 2 large shallots, finely minced: Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions. They melt seamlessly into the fragrant garlic sauce.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio): Deglazes the pan, adding acidity and complex depth to the sauce. Pinot Grigio works wonderfully here.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens and balances the rich flavors with a zesty finish. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Provides herbaceous freshness and a pop of color. Stir in at the very end for maximum impact.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. Season in layers, tasting as you go.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Adds a mild, peppery bite and aromatic warmth. Freshly ground black pepper makes a significant difference.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a subtle warmth and gentle heat. Adjust to your preference for a mild or spicier kick.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, umami finish and creamy texture. Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the entire dish.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for finishing: A final drizzle adds a luxurious sheen and fruity aroma. Use a high-quality finishing oil.

How to Make Garlic Seafood Pasta

Prep Pasta & Aromatics:

Start by cooking linguine according to package directions until al dente. While pasta cooks, pat scallops very dry, peel and devein shrimp. Mince garlic and shallots for your delicious Garlic Seafood Pasta.

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced shallots and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Build Sauce:

Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes until reduced slightly. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it reduce for 3-4 minutes to concentrate flavors.

Sear Seafood:

Meanwhile, in a separate pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Add shrimp and cook 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Combine & Toss:

Drain your al dente pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce skillet. Gently fold in the seared shrimp and scallops. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce for your Garlic Seafood Pasta.

Finish Pasta:

Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should beautifully coat every strand of this Irresistible Tasty Garlic Seafood Pasta.

Garnish & Serve:

Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, enjoying every forkful of this comforting and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

How to Store Garlic Seafood Pasta

To store leftover Garlic Seafood Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to keep it fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t do what I did and leave it out too long, as it can spoil quickly. Discard if you notice any off smell or slimy texture.

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead. Mince garlic and shallots 1-2 days in advance. Cook pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if dry.

What to Serve with Garlic Seafood Pasta

To serve this delightful Garlic Seafood Pasta, simply transfer it warm to individual bowls. For a special touch, garnish with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. It’s the perfect main course on its own, but you can pair it beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

I personally love to serve this pasta family-style, right from the skillet. It creates a warm, communal atmosphere, perfect for sharing and enjoying with loved ones. It makes every meal feel special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the dry white wine in this Tasty Garlic Seafood Pasta recipe?

Yes, you can. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. I’ve done this many times!

→ How do I prevent rubbery shrimp and scallops in my Irresistible Tasty Garlic Seafood Pasta?

The key is quick searing at medium-high heat. Don’t overcook them; shrimp turn pink and opaque in 2 minutes per side, scallops golden in 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking was my biggest mistake initially!

→ Can I make this Irresistible Tasty Garlic Seafood Pasta recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free linguine or spaghetti instead of regular pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. It’s an easy swap I often make for friends.

→ How long do leftovers of this Garlic Seafood Pasta keep in the refrigerator?

Leftover Garlic Seafood Pasta stores well in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to cool it quickly and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Don’t leave it out too long, as I learned!

→ Can I freeze leftover Tasty Garlic Seafood Pasta for later?

Freezing seafood pasta isn’t ideal, as the texture of shrimp and scallops can become rubbery upon reheating. While you *can*, I don’t recommend it for the best experience. It’s truly best fresh or refrigerated.