Delicious Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Easy and Flavorful

Shrimp scampi is a popular Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce, often served over pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish that delivers big flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even special occasions. The dish is simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make this classic shrimp scampi that is bursting with flavor and a great choice for shrimp lovers!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make shrimp scampi, you’ll need a few kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet or Pan: For cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
• Large Pot: To boil the pasta.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in measuring ingredients like olive oil, butter, and spices.
• Tongs: To easily handle the shrimp.

Ingredients

To make a simple yet delicious shrimp scampi, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

How to Make Easy Shrimp Scampi?

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (spaghetti or linguine) and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use, and then drain the pasta using a colander.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. If you like a little spice, add the red pepper flakes to the pan at this point.

Step 4: Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the lemon juice and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Pasta

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Then add the drained pasta to the pan, tossing it gently to combine everything. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Variations

While the classic shrimp scampi is delicious as is, here are some variations you can try to customize the dish:

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the dish for added color and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers.
• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a rich and creamy version of shrimp scampi.

Cooking Note

• Shrimp Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but medium shrimp will also do the trick.
• Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It provides a savory base for the sauce without the alcohol.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp scampi is perfect served over a bed of pasta, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• A fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can add a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so be sure to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Don’t overcook your pasta! It should be al dente to hold up well when mixed with the shrimp and sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give the dish the best flavor. Avoid using garlic powder, which doesn’t offer the same aromatic richness.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

1. Use Good Olive Oil: Since olive oil plays a central role in the sauce, opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
2. Balance the Lemon: The lemon juice adds brightness to the dish, but be careful not to add too much. Taste the sauce before adding more.
3. Perfect Pasta: Save some pasta water before draining—it’s a great tool to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work great! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and pasta in advance. Reheat everything together and add the shrimp last.

What is the best type of pasta to use for shrimp scampi?
Spaghetti or linguine are the classic choices, but you can also use fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer.

Conclusion

Shrimp scampi is an incredibly versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this easy recipe will deliver a restaurant-quality meal in just 25 minutes. With tender shrimp, a flavorful garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, shrimp scampi is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy this scrumptious dish and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!

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