If you’re looking for a dish that combines elegance with simplicity, look no further than shrimp scampi. This classic Italian-American dish features succulent shrimp bathed in a fragrant garlic-butter sauce, served over a bed of pasta. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, shrimp scampi is a true crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 15 minutes, making it a total of 25 minutes from start to finish.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 22g of protein, 15g of fat, and 50g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a bit of pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp, tossing to combine.
- Stir in the remaining butter, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, you can replace white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp scampi pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a light white wine. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the shrimp tender. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them rubbery.
- Not salting the pasta water, resulting in bland pasta.
- Using too much heat, which can burn the garlic.
- Not letting the wine reduce before adding shrimp.
- Skipping the lemon juice, which adds essential flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure to thaw them properly before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.
What type of pasta is best for shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.
What can I replace white wine with?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic alternative to white wine.
How spicy is shrimp scampi?
The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of red pepper flakes used. Omit them for a milder flavor.
Is shrimp scampi gluten-free?
The dish is not gluten-free by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. With its rich garlic-butter sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy this classic recipe and savor every bite!
Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a bit of pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp, tossing to combine.
- Stir in the remaining butter, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition
