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 occasions. I remember the first time I tried shrimp scampi at a quaint little restaurant by the beach; the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the air was simply irresistible. What I love most about Easy Shrimp Scampi is its perfect balance of flavors and textures—the succulent shrimp, the al dente pasta, and the luscious sauce create a symphony of taste that is hard to resist.

People adore this dish not only for its incredible flavor but also for its convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Easy Shrimp Scampi is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat!

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
• 1/2 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

1. 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.
2. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful here; burnt garlic can turn bitter!
3. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
4. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. This will prevent them from overcooking while you finish the sauce.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
2. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This step is crucial as it concentrates the flavors.
3. After the wine has reduced, squeeze in the juice of one lemon. I like to roll the lemon on the counter before cutting it to release more juice.
4. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Stir to combine everything.
5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and stir until melted. This will give the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
6. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed.

Combining the Pasta and Shrimp

1. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce.
2. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If it seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water.
3. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and give it one last gentle toss. The parsley adds a lovely freshness to the dish.

Serving the Dish

1. To serve, plate the shrimp scampi in shallow bowls or on large plates. I like to use tongs to twirl the pasta for a nice presentation.
2. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. It adds a wonderful salty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

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!

Print