Description
Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce, and a touch of lemon. It’s a simple, yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. Typically served with pasta, this dish is flavorful, light, and full of vibrant, zesty flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti is ideal)
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine the shrimp and pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the lemon zest. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Transfer the shrimp scampi to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added nutrition, toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus when making the sauce.
- For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or serve over rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles).
- To make it creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Leftover Shrimp Scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg