Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Shrimp Scampi is a mouthwatering seafood dish that combines tender shrimp with a garlic butter sauce, lemon juice, and white wine. It’s a classic dish that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for something fresh and flavorful, Shrimp Scampi is always a hit.
What is Shrimp Scampi?
Originally an Italian-American dish, Shrimp Scampi refers to shrimp cooked in a garlic and butter sauce. The word “scampi” comes from the Italian name for a small type of lobster, but in modern recipes, shrimp has taken its place. This dish is often served over pasta, but it’s just as delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Shrimp Scampi recipe:
- Quick and Easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to make from start to finish.
- Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, butter, and lemon combine to create a tangy, savory sauce.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or enjoy it as a low-carb meal with veggies.
Now, let’s get into how you can make the perfect Shrimp Scampi right at home.
Ingredients Needed for Shrimp Scampi
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- Juice of one lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Pasta or bread (optional, for serving)
Choosing the Right Shrimp
When making Shrimp Scampi, you want to start with good quality shrimp. Fresh shrimp is always best, but frozen shrimp works well too, as long as you thaw it properly.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Fresh shrimp should be firm and smell like the sea.
- Cleaning Shrimp: Be sure to remove the shell and devein the shrimp before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-cleaned shrimp.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already cleaned. Thaw frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water.
Step 2: Mince the Garlic
Garlic is key in this recipe. The finer the garlic, the more flavor it will infuse into the dish. Mince it finely or use a garlic press.
Step 3: Heat the Oil and Butter
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This combination ensures that the butter doesn’t burn while giving the sauce a rich flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Once the shrimp are nearly cooked, push them to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir it into the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
Step 6: Deglaze with Wine or Broth
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer). This will deglaze the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol.
Step 7: Toss in Lemon Juice and Parsley
Turn off the heat and squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp. Toss in the fresh parsley and give everything a quick stir. The lemon adds brightness and balances the rich butter sauce.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Serve the shrimp scampi immediately with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of pasta. It’s perfect with spaghetti, linguine, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Making Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
For a more filling meal, you can serve Shrimp Scampi with pasta. Here’s how:
- Choose the Right Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are traditional, but any long pasta will work. Cook your pasta until it’s al dente.
- Combine with Sauce: After draining, toss the pasta in the shrimp scampi sauce, ensuring every strand is coated.
Shrimp Scampi Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream after deglazing the pan for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to bring extra heat to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
- Garlic bread for an extra garlicky meal
- Steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
- A glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Every Time
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp can turn rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them, and as soon as they turn pink and opaque, take them off the heat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice make all the difference in this simple dish.
- Adjust to Taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the flavors. If you like more lemon, add extra juice. Want more garlic? Toss in an extra clove.
Storing and Reheating Shrimp Scampi
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Shrimp Scampi is relatively low in calories and high in protein, thanks to the shrimp. Each serving contains around 300-400 calories (without pasta) and is rich in healthy fats from olive oil and butter.
FAQs about Shrimp Scampi Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for a shrimp scampi recipe?
To make shrimp scampi, you typically need shrimp, garlic, butter, olive oil, lemon juice, white wine (optional), parsley, salt, and pepper. Some variations may include red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. How long does it take to cook shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a quick dish, usually taking about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. The shrimp cook very quickly, turning pink and opaque when done.
3. Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?
Absolutely! While white wine adds depth to the flavor, you can substitute it with chicken broth or just use extra lemon juice and a splash of water for a non-alcoholic version.
4. Is shrimp scampi gluten-free?
Yes, shrimp scampi is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all the ingredients used are free of gluten. Be cautious with any added seasonings or broth.
5. What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with zucchini noodles or steamed vegetables.
6. How can I ensure my shrimp doesn’t get rubbery?
To avoid rubbery shrimp, cook them just until they are pink and opaque. Overcooking is the main reason for rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked through.
7. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used for scampi. Thaw them properly before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor. Quick thawing can be done under cold running water.
Conclusion
In summary, Shrimp Scampi stands out as a culinary delight that combines simplicity with elegance. Its delightful blend of garlic, butter, and herbs, married with the succulent texture of shrimp, offers a flavor-packed dish that is both quick to prepare and universally appealing.
This makes it an indispensable recipe for both novices and seasoned cooks alike. We encourage you to bring this restaurant-quality meal into the comfort of your home kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to impress your guests or add a touch of sophistication to your weeknight dinner lineup.
So, why wait? Dive into the delightful world of Shrimp Scampi today and discover how this delicious dish can elevate your cooking repertoire.
