Easy Shrimp Scampi

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Shrimp Scampi is the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re craving something flavorful yet easy to make. With juicy shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and a hint of lemon zest, it’s an indulgent meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. Serve it with linguine for a satisfying and delicious dinner that everyone will love!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 lb linguine pasta
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions:

Cook the linguine pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
While pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning the shrimp until they are pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.

Stir in the remaining butter and reserved pasta water until the sauce emulsifies.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss again to combine.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 450 | Servings: 4

Shrimp Scampi: A Classic and Flavorful Italian Dish

Shrimp Scampi is a popular and indulgent Italian-American dish that combines juicy shrimp with a buttery, garlicky sauce, often served over pasta. This dish is known for its simple yet luxurious flavors and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic, lemon, white wine, and butter creates a savory sauce that perfectly coats the shrimp, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

The Ingredients: Simple Yet Flavorful

This Shrimp Scampi recipe uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavor:

Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Their sweet, delicate flavor pairs beautifully with the rich butter sauce.
Garlic: Garlic is the star of the dish. It infuses the butter with an aromatic, savory punch that’s hard to resist.

Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of butter and olive oil ensures the perfect texture and richness for the sauce.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds acidity and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a refreshing citrus note that cuts through the richness of the butter.

Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a slight heat to balance the richness of the butter and the sweetness of the shrimp.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brings a burst of color and freshness, completing the dish.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

Pasta: Linguine is the traditional choice for Shrimp Scampi, but you can use other pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version. However, the wine does contribute a unique flavor that enhances the sauce.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi

This dish is typically served over pasta, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb version, serve the shrimp and garlic butter sauce over zucchini noodles or a bed of sautéed spinach.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Scampi is a dish that’s easy to prepare, yet packed with flavor. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and quick. The rich garlic-butter sauce is aromatic and flavorful without being overwhelming, and the shrimp are tender and juicy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Health Benefits

While Shrimp Scampi is a rich dish, it still provides several health benefits. Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories, and packed with nutrients such as selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. The healthy fats from the olive oil and the antioxidants in garlic add to the nutritional value, making this a well-rounded meal when paired with a healthy side dish like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

The ingredients used in Shrimp Scampi are all about balancing richness and freshness. Here’s a breakdown:

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but fresh shrimp will give you the best results. Be sure to peel and devein them for easy eating. The shrimp should be medium to large-sized to absorb the flavors of the sauce while still providing a satisfying bite.
Butter and Olive Oil: This combo is what makes the sauce so rich and creamy. The butter adds a smooth, indulgent texture, while the olive oil gives it depth and a bit of fruitiness. Together, they create the perfect foundation for the sauce.
Garlic: Garlic is the backbone of this recipe. It infuses the butter with flavor, giving the dish that delicious savory punch. The key is to sauté it until fragrant but not browned, which can result in a bitter taste.

White Wine: The dry white wine in the sauce adds acidity that balances out the butter’s richness. It also helps to deglaze the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits that stick to the skillet after cooking the shrimp.
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide a burst of citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter sauce. It also brings a refreshing note to the dish, making it light and lively despite its creamy texture.
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick to the dish, which works wonderfully with the richness of the sauce.

Parsley: Fresh parsley is not just a garnish—its freshness brightens the entire dish. The green color also adds a lovely contrast to the golden butter sauce.

Cooking Shrimp Scampi: A Quick and Simple Process

One of the reasons Shrimp Scampi is so beloved is how easy and fast it is to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the best results:

Prepare the Pasta: Start by boiling your linguine pasta or any pasta of your choice in salted water. It usually takes around 9-11 minutes to cook the pasta al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining it—this will help loosen the sauce later.

Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then add the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them—they’ll turn tough and rubbery.
Make the Sauce: After removing the shrimp from the skillet, deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any flavorful bits left behind from cooking the shrimp. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining butter. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly. If it seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently, allowing the pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Add the shrimp back in and toss again. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. It should be pink and opaque when done, which usually takes only 2-3 minutes per side.
Use High-Quality Butter and Olive Oil: Since butter and olive oil form the base of the sauce, using high-quality versions can make a big difference in flavor.
Adjust the Heat Level: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes. For a milder version, you can omit them entirely.

Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the most vibrant citrus flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same freshness and can be a little bitter.
Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. The starchy water helps to thicken the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta better.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Scampi is typically served over pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. However, it can also be served over rice or even with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce. Pair with a crisp, dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is the epitome of a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish offers a perfect balance of rich, buttery flavors and fresh, zesty notes from the lemon and garlic. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner at home or a special gathering with friends and family, Shrimp Scampi is guaranteed to impress. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread for soaking up the delectable sauce. If you’re looking for a dish that combines elegance with ease, Shrimp Scampi is your go-to choice. Enjoy every bite of this classic Italian-inspired favorite!