Easy Shrimp Scampi: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Easy Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the coast right to your kitchen. This classic Italian-American recipe has a rich history, often associated with seaside dining and special family gatherings. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a splash of white wine creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. What I love most about Easy Shrimp Scampi is its incredible versatility; it can be served over pasta, with crusty bread, or even on its own as a light meal. The dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a wonderful balance of taste and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a weeknight meal, Easy Shrimp Scampi is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

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

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. This helps to flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Set it aside while you prepare the shrimp.

Preparing the Shrimp

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. I love using a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking. 5. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful here; burnt garlic can turn bitter! 6. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. 7. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. The shrimp should be fully cooked and have a nice pink color. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Creating the Sauce

8. In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor to the sauce! 9. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavors. 10. Once the wine has reduced, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted and combined. 11. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. I usually add about 1/4 cup, but it depends on how saucy you like it!

Combining the Pasta and Shrimp

12. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. 13. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor boost. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. 14. If you want to elevate the dish even further, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at this stage. It adds a lovely creaminess that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Serving the Dish

15. Serve the shrimp scampi immediately while it’s hot. I like to plate it in shallow bowls for a nice presentation. 16. For an extra touch, garnish with additional parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side. This not only looks appealing but also allows your guests to add a little more lemon juice if they desire. 17. If you have any leftover Parmesan cheese, feel free to sprinkle more on top before serving. 18. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp scampi with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

– If you want to add more vegetables, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the shrimp. They add color and nutrition to the dish. – For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the butter with additional olive oil or even a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy version of shrimp scampi. – If you’re not a fan of white wine, you can use chicken broth or

Conclusion:

In summary, this Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with minimal effort. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a splash of white wine creates a dish that is not only bursting with flavor but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your shrimp scampi with a side of al dente pasta, a fresh green salad, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, or even swapping out the shrimp for scallops or chicken for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Easy Shrimp Scampi a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and share it on social media—let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking!

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