Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that highlights the succulent flavors of shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and white wine, served over pasta. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that will elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Note: This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
6. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
8. Stir in the remaining butter until melted and the pasta is well coated.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
10. Serve immediately, enjoying the mouthwatering flavors.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for different flavors. For a gluten-free option, use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the butter and oil.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp scampi pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of chilled white wine. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the shrimp can become rubbery.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Not salting the pasta water can result in bland noodles.
- Using low-quality wine can negatively affect the flavor.
- Skipping the garlic will reduce the dish’s signature flavor.
- Adding too much lemon juice can overpower the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding shrimp.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess water in the dish.
What type of wine is best for shrimp scampi?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well, enhancing the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.
Can I make shrimp scampi without pasta?
Absolutely! Shrimp scampi can be served over rice, zucchini noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option.
How can I make this dish spicy?
You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
What’s the best way to peel shrimp?
Start by removing the shell from the head to the tail. Then, carefully peel back the shell and remove the tail for easy eating.
Conclusion
With its rich flavors and simple preparation, shrimp scampi is a dish that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the remaining butter until melted and the pasta is well coated.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
