Why Make This Recipe
Shrimp Scampi is a classic dish that brings together the flavors of garlic, butter, and shrimp in a delightful way. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of pasta with a rich and tangy sauce satisfies cravings and impresses family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients:
- 12 oz Large shrimp (- Peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz Angel hair pasta (- Or linguine)
- 6 cloves Garlic (- Minced)
- 3 tbsp Butter (- Unsalted preferred)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup White wine (- Or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice (- Freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (- Chopped)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (- Grated)
- 1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper (- Optional)
- Salt and black pepper (- To taste)
- 1 tsp Lemon zest (- Optional, for extra zing)
Directions:
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Save ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and let it bubble and reduce slightly.
- Add butter and lemon juice. Toss in the cooked pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until well combined.
- Add chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi
To serve Shrimp Scampi, plate the pasta and shrimp mixture hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Shrimp Scampi
If you have leftovers, store Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 2–3 days for the best quality. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.
Tips to Make Shrimp Scampi
- Make sure to not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and should be just pink.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic can lose its aromatic qualities.
- Customize your dish with extra veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
Variation
You can easily make a lighter version of Shrimp Scampi by using whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles). Additionally, if you’re looking for a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even cooking.
2. What type of wine is best for Shrimp Scampi?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works well, but chicken broth is a great alternative if you prefer not to use wine.
3. Can I make Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately and combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A classic Shrimp Scampi dish featuring garlic, butter, and shrimp, served over pasta with a rich sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Large shrimp – Peeled and deveined
- 8 oz Angel hair pasta – Or linguine
- 6 cloves Garlic – Minced
- 3 tbsp Butter – Unsalted preferred
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup White wine – Or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley – Chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Grated
- 1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper – Optional
- Salt and black pepper – To taste
- 1 tsp Lemon zest – Optional
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Save ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and let it bubble and reduce slightly.
- Add butter and lemon juice. Toss in the cooked pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until well combined.
- Add chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For best results, do not overcook the shrimp and use fresh garlic for flavor. You can customize with additional vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
