Classic Shrimp Scampi: A Restaurant-Quality Dish at Home

Looking for a quick, elegant, and flavorful seafood dish? Classic Shrimp Scampi is a perfect choice! This Italian-American favorite features succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon, served over pasta or with crusty bread. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: A rich garlic butter sauce with a zesty lemon kick.

• Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

• Light Yet Satisfying: A well-balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and carbs.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta (If Using)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

3. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pan, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

3. Stir in lemon juice and the remaining 1 tbsp butter.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

2. If serving with pasta, add the cooked linguine along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer to plates and garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

2. Serve immediately with crusty bread or over pasta.

Nutrition Breakdown

This dish is light yet indulgent, offering a great balance of flavors and nutrients:

• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 35g (with pasta)

• Fats: 15g

• Fiber: 2g

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, garlic, and lemon make all the difference.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook fast and can turn rubbery if overdone.

• Deglaze with White Wine: It adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute with chicken broth.

• Serve Immediately: Shrimp scampi tastes best when fresh and hot!

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Bread or Baguette to soak up the sauce.

• Caesar Salad or Roasted Vegetables for a balanced meal.

• A Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

Classic Shrimp Scampi is an easy, elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table in just 20 minutes. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Try it tonight and enjoy a simple yet luxurious seafood meal!