Introduction

Shrimp scampi is a sophisticated yet simple dish that brings the flavors of the Italian coast to your table. This shrimp scampi recipe features succulent shrimp bathed in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party. Its bright, zesty profile and minimal ingredients make it a go-to for seafood lovers. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or a light salad, offering versatility and elegance in every bite.

Shrimp Scampi Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz linguine or spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan for serving

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate and keep warm.
Make Sauce: Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the remaining 2 tbsp butter and lemon zest until melted and smooth.
Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and parsley, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, for desired consistency.
Serve: Divide among plates, sprinkle with optional Parmesan, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips for a Better Shrimp Scampi

Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture
Don’t overcook shrimp to avoid a rubbery consistency
Cook garlic gently to prevent burning and bitterness
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness
Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for balanced flavor
Zest lemon directly into the dish for maximum freshness
Serve immediately to maintain the sauce’s vibrancy
Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better searing

Variations and Customization

Spicy Scampi: Increase red pepper flakes to ½ tsp or add a sliced chili
Creamy Scampi: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce
Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed zucchini or cherry tomatoes
Herb-Infused: Include 1 tsp fresh basil or thyme
Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or skip pasta entirely
Scampi Bake: Toss with breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes
Lemon-Garlic Overload: Double the lemon zest and add an extra garlic clove

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Do not freeze, as the sauce may separate, and the shrimp’s texture degrades
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a green salad
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth
Use as a topping for bruschetta or filling for stuffed mushrooms
Keep chilled if transporting for events to maintain freshness
Garnish with extra parsley or lemon zest for a vibrant presentation
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for elegance

Nutritional Information

The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 4 servings (about 1 cup shrimp and pasta per serving):

Calories: 480 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 28g
Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% of Daily Value
Iron: 10% of Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients like Parmesan or wine. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. This shrimp scampi is high in protein and moderate in carbs, but the butter and oil contribute to its fat content. For a lighter dish, consider the low-carb variation or reduce the butter.

Conclusion

This shrimp scampi recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Its garlicky, lemony sauce and tender shrimp make it a standout for both casual and special occasions. Perfect for seafood enthusiasts, it offers a balance of indulgence and freshness. Pair it with your favorite sides or experiment with variations to make it your own, ensuring a memorable meal every time.

Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Elegant Seafood Classic

A vibrant, garlicky shrimp scampi with a lemony butter sauce, ideal for pasta or elegant dinners.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz linguine or spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan

Instructions

Cook pasta until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water
Heat 2 tbsp butter and oil in a skillet; sauté garlic and red pepper flakes 1 minute
Cook shrimp with salt and pepper 2-3 minutes per side; remove
Add wine and lemon juice; simmer 2-3 minutes
Stir in remaining butter, lemon zest, shrimp, pasta, and parsley
Serve with optional Parmesan

Notes

Don’t overcook shrimp
Use fresh garlic and lemon
Store in fridge for 2 days; don’t freeze
Serve with bread or salad