Shrimp Scampi
Highlighted under: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics
A classic Italian-American dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic and butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party.
Shrimp Scampi is a beloved dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and white wine with tender shrimp. This dish is not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a taste of the coast to your dining table. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic and buttery flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
- Versatile dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Shrimp scampi is a delightful dish that masterfully balances the rich flavors of butter and garlic with the bright acidity of lemon. The use of fresh ingredients elevates this recipe, making it a standout choice for both a casual weeknight meal and an impressive dinner party. The succulent shrimp soak up the savory garlic butter sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
The addition of dry white wine not only enhances the dish's flavor profile but also helps to deglaze the skillet, ensuring that every bit of goodness is incorporated into the sauce. The touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, making every bite a tantalizing experience. This harmonious blend of ingredients is what keeps people coming back for more.
Quick and Convenient
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare dinner can be a challenge. That's where shrimp scampi shines—it's a quick and convenient recipe that can be on the table in under 30 minutes. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
All you need are a few simple ingredients, and you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. This makes shrimp scampi a go-to for families and individuals alike who appreciate the convenience of a speedy yet satisfying dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp scampi is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. While it pairs beautifully with cooked pasta, you might also consider serving it over rice for a lighter option. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious garlic butter sauce, ensuring that no flavor goes to waste.
For a side dish, consider a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the shrimp. This not only adds color to your plate but also enhances the meal's nutritional profile, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Wine and Lemon Juice
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
Storing Leftovers
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Adding a splash of white wine or a bit of butter can help refresh the dish and restore its creamy consistency.
While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, reheating allows you to savor the delicious flavors once more, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying a quick lunch the next day.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your shrimp scampi to suit your taste. For a herbaceous twist, add fresh basil or oregano alongside the parsley for an aromatic experience. You can also experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, for a mixed seafood version.
For those who enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to personalize it to your liking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
→ What type of pasta pairs well with Shrimp Scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but any pasta you prefer will work well.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic and butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g