Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Craving a dish that's quick, delicious, and full of flavor? This shrimp scampi is your answer. With its buttery garlic sauce and tender shrimp, it's a classic that never disappoints. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Imagine juicy shrimp sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and a splash of white wine. This recipe brings that dream to life in just about 30 minutes!

Whether you're serving it with pasta or on its own, this shrimp scampi is the epitome of simple yet elegant dining.

The Allure of Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi stands out in the culinary world, known for its delightful balance of flavors and textures. The combination of succulent shrimp and a rich garlic butter sauce creates an irresistible dish that appeals to many palates.

This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it also presents beautifully. The vibrant pink shrimp, glistening in the sauce, paired with perfectly cooked linguine, creates a stunning visual. Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add a pop of color, enhancing its overall elegance and making it a perfect choice for entertaining.

Ingredients That Shine

Fresh ingredients are the foundation of a great shrimp scampi. Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are essential as they become the star of the dish. Paired with aromatics like minced garlic, they create a savory base that is hard to resist.

Using quality butter and olive oil adds depth and richness to the sauce, while a splash of dry white wine elevates the flavors. The inclusion of lemon juice introduces a delightful acidity, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall experience. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this classic dish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

Mastering shrimp scampi is about timing and technique. Cooking the linguine to al dente ensures it has the right texture to hold up against the sauce. Sautéing the shrimp requires just the right amount of heat, ensuring they cook through without becoming rubbery.

Creating the sauce involves integrating the wine and lemon juice into the pan, deglazing to capture all the flavorful bits. The final step of combining everything is where the magic happens, as the pasta absorbs the sauce, allowing every bite to be filled with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When plating shrimp scampi, presentation matters. Serve the dish on a large platter or individual bowls, garnished generously with freshly chopped parsley. The addition of lemon wedges not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows guests to adjust the brightness to their liking.

A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the dining experience. Consider serving a simple green salad or crusty bread on the side to complete the meal, allowing for a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

The Perfect Occasion for Shrimp Scampi

Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, shrimp scampi fits the bill perfectly. Its quick preparation time makes it an excellent option for busy evenings, while its elegant presentation impresses at dinner parties.

This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, making it a reliable choice for any occasion. Its classic Italian roots resonate with many, providing comfort and sophistication on your dining table.

Enhancing Your Cooking Experience

Cooking shrimp scampi can be a joyful experience, especially when shared with loved ones. Engaging in the process, from selecting fresh ingredients to the final plating, adds to the enjoyment of the meal.

Consider experimenting with additional ingredients such as red pepper flakes for heat or swapping linguine for other pasta types. Each variation offers a new taste experience while keeping the essence of this beloved dish intact.

The Perfect Shrimp Scampi Recipe

A delicious plate of shrimp scampi with garlic butter sauce, linguine, and lemon garnishes.

This shrimp scampi is an incredible combination of fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a light sauce that balances richness with a hint of citrus. It's savory and slightly tangy, making it incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced slightly. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
  4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 350kcal
  • Fat: 16g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

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