Name: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc); 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional); Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

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Short Description

Classic Shrimp Scampi is a timeless seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with white wine and fresh lemon juice. Served over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread, this restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Bursting with bright flavors and a perfect balance of richness, this shrimp scampi recipe is an elegant yet easy-to-make meal ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like garlic, butter, white wine, and fresh herbs, there’s no need for hard-to-find components.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet-style dish without the hefty price tag of dining out.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a meal tailored to your preference.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a bright and savory sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
Light Yet Indulgent: Despite its buttery sauce, shrimp scampi maintains a light, fresh taste that doesn’t feel overly heavy.

Ingredients

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Red pepper flakes
White wine (dry, such as Sauvignon Blanc)
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti) or crusty bread

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Cook the Pasta (If Using): If serving with pasta, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half (about 2 minutes).
Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining butter, letting it melt into the sauce.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce. If serving with pasta, add the cooked pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help bind the sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations

Garlic-Lover’s Scampi: Increase the amount of garlic for an extra bold flavor.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, silkier sauce.
Spicy Kick: Use extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the pasta for gluten-free noodles or serve over zucchini noodles.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace white wine with chicken broth or seafood stock for a similar depth of flavor.
Extra Vegetables: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated from frozen.

FAQs

How do I prevent my shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Overcooking shrimp makes them tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes before cooking.

What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best.

Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?

Yes, substitute chicken broth or seafood stock for a non-alcoholic version.

What pasta pairs best with shrimp scampi?

Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta are excellent choices.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance to speed up the process.

What should I serve with shrimp scampi?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make great accompaniments.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Add a small amount of reserved pasta water or a cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if served without pasta. Opt for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

While possible, it’s not ideal. Pre-cooked shrimp can become overcooked and rubbery when reheated.

Conclusion

Classic Shrimp Scampi is an elegant yet incredibly simple dish that brings bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed with crusty bread, this dish is a perfect blend of garlic, butter, and lemony goodness. With easy-to-find ingredients and a quick cooking process, there’s no reason not to bring this restaurant favorite to your home kitchen. Try it tonight and enjoy a comforting, flavorful seafood meal!

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