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Shrimp Scampi Recipe





Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Description of the Recipe

Indulge in our Shrimp Scampi recipe, featuring succulent shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce with lemon and white wine. Perfect for any occasion! Shrimp scampi is a beloved dish that combines succulent shrimp with a luscious garlic butter sauce, infused with white wine and fresh lemon juice.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. The blend of rich, buttery flavors with the zesty brightness of lemon creates a harmonious and unforgettable taste experience. Serve this shrimp scampi over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce.

Ingredients – Shrimp Scampi Recipe

For the Shrimp Scampi:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • 1 pound linguine or your choice of pasta (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Ingredients

  1. Cook the pasta: If serving the shrimp scampi with pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  2. Add the white wine: Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce by half.
  3. Add the lemon juice and zest: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, combining well with the wine and garlic mixture.

Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish

  1. Return the shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
  2. Add the butter: Cut the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Finish with parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Serve: If serving with pasta, toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce in the skillet until well combined. If not, serve the shrimp scampi directly from the skillet with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Tips and Variations for Shrimp Scampi

  • Wine substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken broth or shrimp stock for a different flavor profile.
  • Herb variations: Fresh basil or cilantro can be used in place of parsley for a unique twist.
  • Spice level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
  • Vegetable additions: Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the skillet for extra color and nutrients.
  • Lemon butter shrimp: For a more citrus-forward dish, increase the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp scampi pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it over your favorite pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad and crusty bread are perfect accompaniments to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Preparation and Cooking Time – Shrimp Scampi Recipe

  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi has roots in Italian cuisine, specifically a dish called “scampi,” which refers to small lobster-like crustaceans found in the Mediterranean and the northeastern Atlantic. In Italy, “scampi” is typically prepared with olive oil, garlic, and white wine. When Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, they adapted the recipe using readily available shrimp, resulting in the beloved dish we know today as shrimp scampi.

The term “scampi” in Italian culinary terminology refers to both the ingredient and the method of preparation. In the United States, the term has become synonymous with the garlic butter and wine sauce used to cook shrimp, making it a uniquely American-Italian creation.

Shrimp scampi gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century and has since become a staple in Italian-American cuisine. Its ease of preparation, combined with its luxurious flavor, makes it a favorite for both home cooks and restaurant chefs alike.

This detailed recipe for shrimp scampi ensures a delectable and authentic dish that will delight your taste buds.