Indulge in the rich flavors of this shrimp scampi recipe, where tender shrimp meet a luscious garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining table. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special gathering, shrimp scampi is quick to prepare, making it a favorite for busy cooks. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 420
– Protein: 26g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by cooking the linguine according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside, leaving the garlic mixture in the pan.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, mixing well with the sauce.
- Add the shrimp back to the skillet, along with the remaining butter, and toss to combine.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or lobster. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or zucchini instead of shrimp. Additionally, you can replace white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
Serving and Pairings
Shrimp scampi pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. You might also consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the shrimp can become rubbery when thawed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them tough; cook just until they turn pink.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish; stick to the recommended amount.
- Don’t skip the white wine; it adds depth to the sauce.
- Make sure to salt the pasta water for better flavor.
- Letting the sauce simmer too long can result in a dry dish.
- Not reserving some pasta water can lead to a dry final dish.
- Using pre-cooked shrimp may not yield the best flavor; fresh is preferred.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For extra zest, add lemon zest to the sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture.
What type of pasta works best for shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or even gluten-free options.
Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?
Absolutely! You can replace the wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar flavor without the alcohol.
Is shrimp scampi a healthy meal?
Shrimp scampi can be a healthy option as it is low in calories and high in protein, especially when paired with a salad or vegetables.
How can I make shrimp scampi spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi is a timeless dish that beautifully melds flavors and textures, making it a staple for both casual and special occasions. With its quick preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy this classic seafood recipe and make it a part of your culinary repertoire!
Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour white wine and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, mixing well with the sauce.
- Add the shrimp back to the skillet and toss to combine.