why make this recipe
Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of seafood to your table. This recipe is quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its buttery garlic sauce and fresh parsley, it provides a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy shrimp, which are packed with protein and can be quite healthy when cooked right. The best part? You can serve it over pasta for a filling meal or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
how to make Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Large shrimp (Peeled and deveined.)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Adds richness to the sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (For sautéing the garlic and shrimp.)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced, provides a fragrant base.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Optional, adds a hint of heat.)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable broth (Substitute for white wine.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (Chopped, adds freshness.)
- to taste Salt (Enhances overall flavor.)
- to taste Black pepper (Enhances overall flavor.)
Directions:
- Thaw shrimp if frozen, peel and devein if necessary, rinse under cold water, and pat dry. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through until pink and opaque.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Add cooked linguine or spaghetti to the skillet, toss gently with shrimp and sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.
how to serve Shrimp Scampi
Serve Shrimp Scampi hot, preferably over a bed of linguine or spaghetti. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
how to store Shrimp Scampi
If you have leftovers, allow the Shrimp Scampi to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
tips to make Shrimp Scampi
- Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Omit them if you prefer a milder dish.
- Lemon juice and zest add brightness; don’t skip them!
- Experiment with adding other herbs like basil or parsley for different flavors.
variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add fresh vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes while cooking the shrimp. This adds more color and nutrition to the dish. You can also substitute the vegetable broth with white wine if preferred.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Is Shrimp Scampi healthy?
Shrimp Scampi can be a healthy dish, especially when using fresh ingredients. Shrimp are high in protein and low in calories.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with mushrooms or tofu and use a plant-based butter option to make it vegan. Adjust the flavors accordingly to suit your taste.
Shrimp Scampi
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A quick and flavorful dish featuring shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce, great for busy nights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Thaw shrimp if frozen, peel and devein if necessary, rinse under cold water, and pat dry. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through until pink and opaque.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Add cooked linguine or spaghetti to the skillet, toss gently with shrimp and sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh shrimp and adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Serve hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan.