Shrimp Scampi
FOOD RECIPES
Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1 pound (450 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4–6 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (e·g·, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for a looser sauce)
For Garnish and Serving:
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
12 ounces spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels·
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes· Set aside·
Cook the Pasta (if using):
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil· Cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente· Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside·
Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat·
Add the shrimp in a single layer· Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque·
Remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate·
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium· Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant· Be careful not to burn the garlic·
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly·
Add the lemon juice and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter· Stir until the butter melts·
Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the shrimp to the skillet· Toss to coat in the sauce· Cook for 1–2 minutes to heat through·
Adjust Sauce Consistency:
If serving with pasta, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine· Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce·
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley and lemon zest over the shrimp scampi·
Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired·
Tips
Freshness Matters: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor· If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry·
Wine Substitute: If avoiding alcohol, use chicken broth with a splash of white vinegar or extra lemon juice for acidity·
Serving Ideas: Serve as is, over pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce·