Delicious Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Quick and Easy Italian-American Classic
If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, look no further than Shrimp Scampi. This Italian-American classic is a crowd-pleaser, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Shrimp Scampi recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details!
What is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp Scampi is a dish that originated in Italian-American cuisine. Traditionally, “scampi” refers to langoustines or small lobsters, but in the U.S., it has become synonymous with shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon. The dish is often served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20-30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich and zesty sauce.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
- Impressive Yet Simple: This dish looks and tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish (serves 4):
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon zest, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Pasta (Optional)
- If serving with pasta, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Cook the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta (if using) in the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Alternatively, serve the shrimp and sauce over the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have the best texture and flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp work well too.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a splash of pasta water or a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices.
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- With Vegetables: Pair with steamed asparagus, broccoli, or a fresh green salad.
- With Rice: For a gluten-free option, serve over steamed rice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g (without pasta)
- Fat: 18g
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Final Thoughts
Shrimp Scampi is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic!
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Enjoy this delicious Shrimp Scampi recipe and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!