Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Refrigerate for up to two days.
Quick Answer
Shrimp Scampi is a quick and delicious pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and white wine.
Living in New York City, I’ve learned that some of the simplest dishes can steal the show during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. The aroma of garlic, butter, and fresh shrimp filling my small apartment brings comfort and warmth, especially as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach. One classic recipe that never fails to impress is Shrimp Scampi. This vibrant dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with flavors that make it a perfect fit for festive gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
A Perfect Holiday Feast
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
- Bursting with flavor from fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and parsley.
- The combination of shrimp and buttery sauce creates a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile – pair it with different pasta or serve it over rice for a delightful twist.
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests and family alike.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi:
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Flavor Base
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Shrimp Scampi (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a delicious Shrimp Scampi that will impress everyone at the table:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s rolling, add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The fragrance of the melting butter and the oil mingling together is absolutely heavenly.
Step 3: Flavor it Up
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned – we want that golden aroma to infuse the oil.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Toss in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn a lovely pink and opaque. The sizzling sound is music to my ears!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate, and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add some of that reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish with Flavor
Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter until melted, then add the fresh parsley. The final touch of green not only adds color but also a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
Step 8: Serve
Plate your Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and grated Parmesan if you like. The sight of this dish is truly a showstopper, and the aroma fills the air, making it hard to resist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Cleaning the Shrimp Properly: Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined for an enjoyable dining experience.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: They should be perfectly pink and slightly firm; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy water is essential for achieving that silky sauce consistency.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Letting the garlic cook slowly brings out its sweetness and prevents bitterness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Play with Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your taste preference for that perfect spice level.
Variations
- Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options if desired.
- Replace dry white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
How to Serve
- Plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for the perfect dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pasta ahead of time and store it separately from the sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the quality may diminish after freezing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my many rounds of testing, I’ve discovered that the quality of the shrimp truly makes a difference. Investing in good seafood elevates this dish exponentially. Plus, the joy of making a seemingly fancy dish in under 30 minutes never gets old – you’ll feel like a culinary hero at your own table!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 25g protein · 40g carbs · 20g fat
Quick and Flavorful Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s rolling, add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Toss in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add some reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter until melted, then add the fresh parsley.
- Plate your Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and grated Parmesan if you like.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it’s best to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture.
2. What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?
If you prefer to avoid wine, you can substitute with a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
3. How can I make Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the linguine or spaghetti with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. The rest of the recipe remains the same!
