Spaghetti with Shrimp, Capers and Garlic

This simple, straightforward pasta recipe can be whipped up on a moment's notice with pantry ingredients and shrimp—just the thing for a busy weeknight supper. Olive oil plays a big role here, so use only the best extra virgin olive oil you can find.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 pound dry spaghetti pasta
5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more to taste
1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons bottled capers, rinsed
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions:

1. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions.
2. While the pasta cooks heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 minute. Add the capers and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally until the shrimps turn pink and firm, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley and season with salt and pepper.
3. Drain the spaghetti and return to the warmed pot. Add the shrimp and its sauce and toss, adding the remaining 3 tablespoons oil or more if you wish. Transfer to a large, warmed serving bowl. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.