Description
Delectable garlic butter shrimp scampi emerges as a Mediterranean-inspired seafood classic that brings coastal flavors to home kitchens. Quick preparation and simple ingredients make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner for those craving restaurant-quality seafood.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
Fats and Liquids:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) linguine or spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions if serving with the dish, then set aside in a colander to drain completely.
- Select a large skillet and warm olive oil with part of the butter over medium heat until butter melts and creates a silky cooking surface.
- Introduce minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to release its aromatic essence without browning, approximately 30 seconds.
- Carefully add raw shrimp to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, watching for color transformation to vibrant pink and translucent texture indicating perfect doneness.
- Deglaze the pan by pouring white wine or chicken broth along with fresh lemon juice, allowing liquid to simmer and concentrate flavors for 2 minutes.
- Incorporate remaining butter and chopped fresh parsley, creating a luxurious sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
- If desired, gently toss cooked pasta with the shrimp scampi to marry flavors thoroughly.
- Transfer to serving plates immediately, finishing with a delicate sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
Notes
- Select jumbo or large shrimp for the most succulent and tender texture in your dish.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure perfect golden-brown searing without releasing excess water.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor compared to bottled versions.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference, ranging from a mild sprinkle to a spicy kick.
- Swap white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version without compromising rich flavor profile.
- Choose gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to make the recipe suitable for different dietary needs.
- Cook shrimp quickly over high heat to prevent rubbery, tough texture and maintain delicate, juicy consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 294 kcal
- Sugar: 0.3 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg