Shrimp Scampi is a delectable dish that features tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic, butter, and lemon sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, and pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti) or crusty bread for serving
Directions
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Skillet:
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add Lemon and Shrimp:
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce, cooking for an additional minute to heat through.
- Serve:
- Serve the shrimp scampi immediately over your choice of cooked pasta or with crusty bread. For extra richness, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamy version.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the shrimp and sauce separate from the pasta or bread.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
- Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- What type of pasta is best for this dish?
- Linguine or spaghetti works well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Can I use chicken broth instead of white wine?
- Yes, chicken broth is a good substitute if you prefer not to use wine.
- How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
- Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.
- Can I add vegetables to the dish?
- Yes, consider adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free, or serve with gluten-free bread.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you prefer.
- What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi besides pasta and bread?
- Consider serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Can I freeze leftover Shrimp Scampi?
- While you can freeze the shrimp and sauce, it’s best to eat it fresh or store it in the refrigerator as freezing may affect the texture of the shrimp.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi is a classic dish that combines the richness of garlic, butter, and lemon with tender shrimp for a delightful meal. Whether served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread, this recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Shrimp Scampi will impress with its vibrant flavors and simplicity. Enjoy every bite of this zesty and buttery delight!
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Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich, buttery garlic and lemon sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this flavorful dish can be served over pasta or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti) or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Skillet:
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add Lemon and Shrimp:
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce, cooking for an additional minute to heat through.
- Serve:
- Serve the shrimp scampi immediately over your choice of cooked pasta or with crusty bread. For extra richness, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- For added heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 22g22g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 195mg