Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together the delicate sweetness of shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Known for its bold flavors and quick preparation, Shrimp Scampi has become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. With just a few simple ingredients like garlic, lemon, and fresh shrimp, this dish is elevated to something truly extraordinary. The combination of butter, olive oil, and white wine creates a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp, while the addition of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish with a zesty finish. Often served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, Shrimp Scampi is a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, Shrimp Scampi is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Shrimp Scampi is a dish that’s both luxurious and simple to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy evenings when you’re craving something special. The savory garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish, infusing the shrimp with incredible flavor. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon and the richness of the butter. This dish is versatile – you can serve it over pasta, rice, or even on its own with a side of garlic bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, main course, or part of a multi-course meal, Shrimp Scampi is always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that the ingredients are simple and easy to find, yet the end result is a sophisticated, restaurant-quality meal that feels indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions, until it’s al dente. Once done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add the butter cubes to the skillet and stir until the butter is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce, allowing them to heat through for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Variation:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, you can toss in vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus to the garlic butter sauce. The vegetables will absorb the flavors of the sauce, creating a deliciously hearty dish.
• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce. The spice pairs beautifully with the garlic and lemon, giving the dish an extra kick.
• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: For a richer, creamier version of Shrimp Scampi, add ½ cup of heavy cream to the sauce along with the butter. The creaminess will balance out the acidity of the lemon and wine, creating a velvety texture.
• Shrimp Scampi without Wine: If you prefer to make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

Cooking Notes:

• Choosing Shrimp: When selecting shrimp for this recipe, choose large, raw, and preferably wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp works well, but be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Butter Consistency: For a smoother sauce, it’s important to add the butter gradually, stirring it in cubes so it melts evenly without separating.
• Pasta Choices: While spaghetti is the most common pasta used for Shrimp Scampi, you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles if you prefer a low-carb option.

Serving Suggestions:

Shrimp Scampi is best served hot, right after cooking, so the shrimp stays tender and the sauce is fresh. The dish can be served on its own for a lighter meal, or paired with sides like a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, complements the flavors of the Shrimp Scampi beautifully. If you want a more indulgent meal, serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a rich risotto. For a summery twist, a glass of chilled rosé will pair perfectly with the bright lemon and garlic notes in the dish.

Tips:

• Shrimp Size: The size of the shrimp can affect the cooking time. Larger shrimp will need a little more time in the skillet, while smaller shrimp cook faster. Make sure to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
• Toss the Pasta and Shrimp Together: For the best results, be sure to toss the pasta and shrimp together in the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
• Add Extra Lemon: If you love the brightness of lemon, feel free to add extra lemon zest or a bit more juice to the sauce to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 400-500 kcal per serving (depending on pasta and butter used)
• Protein: 30-35 grams (from shrimp)
• Sodium: 500-600 mg (from shrimp, butter, and salt)

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen shrimp works well for Shrimp Scampi. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking, either in the refrigerator overnight or quickly under cold running water.
2. Can I make Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
   While Shrimp Scampi is best served immediately, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked shrimp and pasta.
3. What kind of pasta should I use?
   Traditional Shrimp Scampi is served with spaghetti or linguine, but you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne. Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice can be great low-carb alternatives.
4. Can I use other seafood for this dish?
   Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with scallops or lobster tails for a variation. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different seafood may require slight adjustments.

Conclusion:

Shrimp Scampi is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress. The combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and a splash of lemon creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a dinner party, Shrimp Scampi is always a winner. It’s versatile, customizable, and above all, incredibly tasty. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.