Shrimp Scampi
Indulge in the exquisite taste of Shrimp Scampi, a dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of shrimp with the boldness of garlic and butter. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor every bite of this delicious dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta (for serving)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 320 calories, 15g fat, 30g protein, and 5g carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the remaining butter until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi!
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Additionally, feel free to use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option instead of pasta.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with linguine or spaghetti. A fresh garden salad and crusty bread also complement the dish perfectly. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine.
Storage and Reheating
To store Shrimp Scampi, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the shrimp can become rubbery.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture; cook just until pink.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish, so stick to the recipe.
- Not letting the wine reduce can make the sauce too watery.
- Skipping the butter makes the sauce less rich and flavorful.
- Using low-quality shrimp can affect the taste; opt for fresh or well-frozen shrimp.
Helpful Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better searing.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What kind of pasta goes best with shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can use any pasta you like.
Is Shrimp Scampi spicy?
It can be made spicy by adding red pepper flakes, but it’s usually mild.
Can I make Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.
What wine should I use for cooking Shrimp Scampi?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well for cooking.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients for a stunning meal. Its rich flavors and quick preparation make it a go-to for any seafood lover. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!
Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Cooked pasta for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the remaining butter until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
- Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi!
