How to Make Shrimp Scampi: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Shrimp scampi is a quick and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with a touch of white wine and fresh lemon juice, then served over pasta or with crusty bread. This classic dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a romantic dinner at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (optional)
- Lemon wedges and extra parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta (if using)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
- Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and cook for 1–2 more minutes to warm the shrimp through.
Step 6: Serve the Shrimp Scampi
- If serving with pasta, toss the cooked pasta in the skillet to coat it in the sauce.
- Alternatively, serve the shrimp and sauce over rice, with crusty bread, or on their own.
- Garnish with additional parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp work best for this dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Deglaze the Pan: Scrape the skillet after adding wine to release any flavorful bits from cooking the shrimp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp scampi is:
- Fast and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce is irresistibly delicious.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, bread, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Try this classic shrimp scampi recipe for a delightful seafood dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor!
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