Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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Before we dive into the delicious world of shrimp scampi, let’s talk about what pairs perfectly with this Italian classic. Brimming with garlic, butter, and a zesty lemon kick, shrimp scampi deserves accompaniments that balance its bold flavors. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal.

A fresh garden salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp.

For a delightful touch, serve crusty artisan bread—perfect for soaking up that irresistible scampi sauce.

To complement the flavors, opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines enhance the dish without overpowering it. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add texture and flavor contrast.

Lastly, toss some spaghetti or linguine in the scampi sauce for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please.

It was a warm evening, and the sun was setting with colors that painted the sky. I was enjoying time in the kitchen, the aroma of garlic wafting through the air. At that moment, I decided it was the perfect time to whip up shrimp scampi.

This dish encompasses flavors that are rich yet simple, comforting yet elegant. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare!

In my culinary adventures, I’ve discovered that shrimp scampi is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite transports you to a quaint Italian bistro by the sea. You can almost hear the laughter and chatter of diners while savoring the succulent shrimp drenched in a buttery, garlicky sauce.

It’s a dish I make again and again, not just for its flavor but also for how it brings people together.

What is Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp scampi, at its core, is a dish of sautéed shrimp cooked in a sauce of garlic, lemon, and butter, often served over pasta or with bread. The term “scampi” originally referred to a type of crustacean; however, in America, it has come to symbolize this delightful preparation of shrimp.

The beauty of shrimp scampi lies in its simplicity. When you take fresh, juicy shrimp and combine it with basic ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and lemon, you create something unforgettable.

This dish is a canvas, ready to be customized based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi?

You might be wondering, what makes shrimp scampi such a favorite for many? Here’s why this dish stands out:

1. Quick and Easy: It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe suits all skill levels.
2. Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, buttery goodness, and a splash of lemon creates an explosion of flavors. You’ll be hooked from the first bite.
3. Versatile: This dish is incredibly adaptable. Prefer it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Want to make it heartier? Serve it with pasta. It can be whatever you desire.
4. Impressive Presentation: A colorful plate of shrimp scampi looks stunning. It’s the kind of dish that gets guests talking and makes for a perfect centerpiece on any dinner table.
5. Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs if you opt for serving it without pasta, shrimp scampi can fit well into various dietary lifestyles.

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The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Shrimp Scampi

Before you dive into cooking, let’s gather the essentials for your shrimp scampi. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp (21 to 30 per pound), thawed if frozen

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 medium bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

– 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus extra for serving

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes

– Juice of 1/2 medium lemon

– Cooked pasta or crusty artisan bread, for serving

– 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme

Each ingredient brings something special to the dish, and together they create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and measure out your wine or broth. Having everything ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic.

You want to sauté the garlic gently until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Watch closely; burnt garlic can ruin the dish and make it bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add your shrimp to the skillet. They should sizzle upon contact. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

At this point, you can’t help but notice the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Add the Liquid

Once your shrimp are cooked, pour in the white wine or chicken broth. This is where the magic happens. The liquid forms the base for your sauce.

Scrape up any bits stuck to the pan; that’s flavor you don’t want to miss. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off a bit.

Step 5: Enrich the Sauce

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pan. Give it a good stir, and let it simmer for a minute. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the parsley, stirring to combine everything.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon your shrimp and sauce over cooked pasta or serve on a plate with crusty bread. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a spritz of lemon for extra flair.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp scampi turns out perfectly every time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ingredients enhance the flavor dramatically. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean, not fishy.
Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery. Watch them closely.
Balance the Flavors: Feel free to adjust lemon, garlic, and spice levels to match your taste buds.
Rest Time: Let the dish rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the sauce to absorb into the shrimp.
Add Fresh Herbs: Besides parsley, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano to vary the flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to prevent the shrimp from overcooking again.

Nutrition Information

shrimp scampi nutrition facts

Serving Suggestions

When you’re ready to serve, here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

1. With Linguine: Toss cooked linguine into the shrimp sauce for a classic presentation that twirls beautifully on the fork.
2. Over Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve your shrimp on a bed of zucchini noodles, which soak up the flavors excellently.
3. As a Standalone Dish: Serve it simply, drizzled with sauce and garnished with parsley. Sometimes less is more!
4. With a Lemon-Wine Sauce: Create a lighter version by reducing the amount of butter and using a splash of broth with extra herbs.
5. With Garlic Bread: Don’t forget the bread! Serve with garlic bread to mop up every bit of that delicious sauce.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Shrimp Scampi?

Feeling adventurous? Here are some substitutes if you want to switch it up:

1. Chicken: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook them fully before adding garlic.
2. Scallops: Another seafood option. Scallops cook quickly and add a different texture to the dish.
3. Tofu: For a vegetarian take, use firm tofu. Marinate it in soy sauce and sauté until crispy.
4. Swordfish: This meaty fish can replace shrimp for a heartier dish. Cook for a longer time to ensure it’s done.
5. Veggies: Bell peppers and asparagus provide added flavor and crunch when sautéed with garlic and lemon.

Elaine Gordon

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings

Calories 345 kcal

Equipment

Skillet

Ingredients

1 pound raw jumbo shrimp 21 to 30 per pound, thawed if frozen
2 cloves garlic minced
1/4 medium bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
Juice of 1/2 medium lemon
Cooked pasta or crusty artisan bread for serving
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fresh thyme