Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a classic dish that combines tender shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of lemon and a touch of spice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside fresh vegetables for a versatile and delicious experience.
Imagine sitting down to a steaming plate of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: tender shrimp bathed in a buttery garlic sauce with a zesty lemon atop a bed of perfectly al dente pasta. This classic Italian-American dish is a restaurant favorite and surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a gourmet meal on a weekday, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi promises bold flavors and an elegant presentation that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Create a gourmet experience without the hefty price tag.
- Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread.
- Customizable: Adjust spices and flavors to suit your palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love its rich and comforting taste.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp work best. Frozen shrimp are a great alternative if appropriately thawed.
- Butter and Olive Oil: This duo creates a balanced richness. Use only butter for a creamier sauce or olive oil for a lighter version.
- White Wine: Adds depth to the sauce. Substitute with chicken broth if needed.
- Garlic: Essential for the bold flavor. Fresh garlic is preferred over pre-minced.
- Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are classics, but penne or fettuccine also work.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry. Chop garlic and parsley, zest and juice the lemon, and measure all other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water, cook your pasta of choice, and reserve some pasta water. Timing is key to ensuring the pasta doesn’t overcook.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat oil in a skillet and cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat. They should turn pink but remain juicy.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Melt butter in the same skillet and combine with garlic, red pepper flakes, wine, and lemon juice. Allow it to simmer to enhance the flavors.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Mix pasta into the sauce, toss in the shrimp, and finish with parsley and lemon zest. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley elevate the flavors significantly.
- Adjust to Taste: Customize the spice level by varying the red pepper flakes.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps emulsify the sauce, creating a silky finish.
Variations and Customizations
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for nutrition.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or serve with zoodles (zucchini noodles).
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is versatile and pairs well with:
- A crisp side salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but add them at the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Q: What’s the best pasta for scampi?
A: Linguine and spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute butter with a vegan alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Q: Is white wine necessary?
A: Not at all! Chicken broth or vegetable stock works as a great replacement.
Related Recipes
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta
- Herbed Butter Lobster Tail
- Classic Italian Carbonara
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a dish that combines simplicity and sophistication. With its buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and vibrant citrus notes, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a meal that feels like dining out without leaving home.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- 1 Lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add the remaining olive oil. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add white wine and lemon juice, bringing it to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine pasta and shrimp: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Return shrimp to the pan and sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest. Toss everything to coat.
- Serve: Plate the dish hot, garnished with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired.
Notes
Table of Contents
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