As the evening sun shines, the kitchen fills with the scent of garlic and sizzling shrimp. This classic shrimp scampi recipe is ideal for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious, easy Italian dish that’s ready in 20 minutes.
With a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of the Amalfi Coast at home. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night.
Key Takeaways
- This easy shrimp scampi recipe is ready in just 20 minutes.
- It’s a classic Italian dish featuring plump shrimp cooked in a buttery, garlicky white wine sauce.
- Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive dinner parties, this dish requires minimal prep and cook time.
- The recipe uses jumbo shrimp (21-30 per pound) for the best texture and flavor.
- The dish serves approximately 4 people and can be easily doubled.
What is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a beloved dish in the United States. It’s a mix of succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and olive oil. It’s often served with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Origin of the Dish
The dish comes from Italian cuisine. “Scampi” originally meant a small crustacean. But in the U.S., it’s made with larger shrimp, becoming a favorite.
Traditional Ingredients
- Jumbo or extra-large shrimp (21-30 count per pound)
- Garlic, minced or crushed
- Butter and olive oil
- Dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Chopped parsley
Common Variations
Many have put their own twist on shrimp scampi. Some add red pepper flakes for spice. Others use chicken broth instead of white wine. You can even serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a delicious shrimp scampi, you’ll need a few important ingredients. The main star is jumbo shrimp (about 21-30 per pound). They add a great texture and taste to the dish. You’ll also need garlic for its strong smell and dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. This wine makes the scampi sauce.
Fresh Shrimp Options
Fresh, never-frozen shrimp are best, but good frozen shrimp work too. Choose jumbo or extra-large shrimp for the best flavor. Make sure to peel and devein them before cooking.
Essential Pantry Staples
- Unsalted butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon juice and zest
- Salt and black pepper
Choosing the Right Pasta
Linguine pasta is a classic choice for shrimp scampi. You can also use angel hair or spaghetti. These long, thin pasta strands go well with the shrimp and sauce. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, so it’s firm but not hard.
“The key to a great shrimp scampi is using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Don’t skimp on the shrimp or the wine – they make all the difference in the final dish.”
Preparing the Shrimp
To make a tasty shrimp scampi dish, start with fresh, peeled and deveined shrimp. Make sure the tails are on for a nice look. Dry the shrimp with paper towels to help them brown well when cooked.
Cleaning and Deveining Shrimp
If your shrimp have shells, peel and devein them first. This step removes the vein and makes the dish cleaner and more appealing. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to open the shrimp and pull out the vein.
Marinating Shrimp for Flavor
- Marinate the peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and herbs like parsley or thyme. Let them marinate for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
- This marinating techniques adds great flavor to the shrimp, making each bite delicious.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and slightly curled.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can steam the shrimp instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
- Watch the shrimp closely and adjust the heat to prevent burning or overcooking.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 606 |
| Fat | 31g |
| Carbs | 36g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Cholesterol | 247mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 2g |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 245mg |
| Iron | 5mg |
| Potassium | 426mg |
Cooking the Pasta
When making shrimp scampi, the pasta is as crucial as the seafood. Traditionally, linguine is used, but spaghetti or angel hair also work well. The pasta should be cooked al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes.
Types of Pasta to Use
Linguine is the classic choice for shrimp scampi. But you can also try spaghetti or angel hair. The key is to pick a pasta that complements the shrimp and sauce.
Cooking Tips for al Dente
To get the perfect al dente texture, watch the pasta closely. Taste it a minute or two before it’s done. It should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Don’t overcook it, as mushy pasta ruins the dish.
Timing Your Pasta with the Shrimp
Make sure the pasta and shrimp are ready at the same time. Finish cooking the pasta just as the shrimp and sauce are done. This way, everything is hot and ready to mix. If needed, save some pasta water to help the sauce stick to the noodles.
For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or serve with crusty bread instead of pasta.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Linguine Pasta | 1 lb. | 8-10 minutes |
| Jumbo Shrimp | 16 oz. (21-30 per pound) | 3-4 minutes |
By timing the pasta and shrimp carefully, you’ll get a delicious shrimp scampi dish every time.
Making the Scampi Sauce
The secret to a great shrimp scampi is the scampi sauce. This sauce is full of flavor and aroma. It makes the shrimp taste even sweeter.
Butter and Olive Oil Ratio
The sauce has a mix of butter and olive oil, 4 to 2. This makes the sauce rich but light. It perfectly coats the shrimp.
Flavor Enhancers: Garlic and Herbs
Garlic, 3 to 5 cloves, is cooked until it smells amazing. This adds a special aroma to the sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley add a bright, fresh taste.
Adding Lemon for Brightness
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, about half a lemon, is added. This adds a tangy touch. It balances the richness of the butter, making the flavors work together well.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3-5 cloves |
| Dry White Wine | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons (from about 1/2 lemon) |
| Chopped Fresh Parsley | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | To taste |
The scampi sauce should be light and full of flavor. The garlic butter sauce is the base. The white wine and lemon juice add to the taste, making it balanced and aromatic.
Combining Pasta and Shrimp
Once the shrimp are cooked and the scampi sauce is ready, it’s time to mix everything together. Make sure the shrimp and sauce are spread evenly. This keeps the dish warm and inviting.
Timing and Techniques
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with the scampi sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss. Use tongs or a spoon to mix the shrimp and sauce with the noodles.
Ensuring Even Distribution
Using the right tossing techniques is key. Gently toss the ingredients together. This way, the shrimp, sauce, and pasta blend well, making a beautiful dish.
Keeping Everything Warm
Serve the shrimp scampi right after mixing. If you need to wait, cover the pan to keep it warm. The pasta’s heat will keep the dish warm, ensuring a great taste for everyone.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel-hair pasta | ¾ pound |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Large or jumbo shrimp | ¾ pound |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup (from 2 lemons) |
| Chopped fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons |
The secret to a great shrimp scampi is in the details. Mastering tossing techniques and keeping the right serving temperature will impress your guests. They’ll love every bite and want more.
Serving Suggestions
Make your shrimp scampi dish stand out with these serving tips. The way you present your food matters a lot. Start by twirling pasta onto the plate and placing shrimp on top. Add some extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh look.
If you’re not using pasta, place the shrimp in a bowl. Spoon the sauce over them. Serve crusty bread on the side for dipping into the garlic-butter sauce.
Pairing with Sides and Salads
Pair your shrimp scampi with a green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. The salad or veggies will add a nice contrast to the rich shrimp scampi. A chilled white wine pairs well with the dish.
For a heartier side, try garlic bread or focaccia. These breads match the scampi’s flavors and offer a nice texture contrast.
Other great sides include lemon butter pasta, polenta, risotto, potato soup, or a fragrant rice pilaf. These options add variety and enhance your meal.
For a healthier option, serve shrimp scampi with gazpacho, grilled veggies, or a mushroom spinach artichoke dish. These choices add nutrition and balance to your meal.
Storing Leftovers
Enjoying shrimp scampi doesn’t have to end with one meal. You can enjoy it for days with the right storage. Follow these simple steps to keep your shrimp scampi fresh and flavorful.
Refrigeration Techniques
Put leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps flavors in and prevents drying. You can store it for 2-3 days this way.
Reheating Tips
To reheat shrimp scampi, use a skillet on medium-low heat. Add a bit of water or white wine to the sauce. Don’t microwave it, as it can make the shrimp tough. Best to eat it within 24 hours for the best taste.
Freezing is not the best option. The shrimp and pasta’s texture can change, affecting the dish’s quality and taste.
“Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to ensuring your shrimp scampi leftovers taste just as delicious as the day you made it.”
Nutritional Information
Shrimp scampi is a tasty and balanced meal that’s good for you. A serving without pasta has about 280-360 calories. It also has 20-27 grams of protein and 16-20 grams of fat. Shrimp, the main ingredient, is low in calories but high in protein.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is packed with selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients boost your health. Selenium protects cells from damage, and vitamin B12 helps make energy and red blood cells.
Balancing the Dish with Sides
- Pair your shrimp scampi with whole grain pasta or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- For fewer calories, try it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. This boosts the healthy seafood content.
Adding these sides makes your shrimp scampi even healthier. It becomes a fulfilling and healthy seafood dish that fits your diet.
Trending Shrimp Scampi Variations
Shrimp scampi is a classic dish, but people are always trying new things. They add different white wines and even a spicy kick. These new recipes give the old dish a fresh twist.
Shrimp Scampi with White Wine
Some recipes add white wine to the classic scampi sauce. This gives it a richer flavor. Try using a crisp Pinot Grigio or a buttery Chardonnay to make a luxurious sauce.
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Scampi
For those who like a bit of heat, spicy garlic shrimp scampi is great. Adding red pepper flakes or diced chilies makes it spicy. But it still keeps the garlicky, buttery taste.
Shrimp Scampi with Vegetables
Home cooks are adding veggies to make shrimp scampi healthier. Cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or asparagus spears add color and nutrients. They also change the dish’s texture.
These recipe variations keep shrimp scampi exciting. You can make it spicy or add fresh vegetables. The possibilities are endless for a creative twist on this classic dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect shrimp scampi needs focus and avoiding common errors. By avoiding these mistakes, you can make a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Your scampi will be a hit every time.
Overcooking the Shrimp
One big mistake is overcooking the shrimp. Overcooked shrimp feels tough and tastes bad. To get it right, watch the shrimp closely. Remove them from the heat when they’re pink and look opaque, usually in 3-4 minutes.
Skipping Key Ingredients
Don’t leave out the important ingredients that make shrimp scampi special. Garlic, lemon juice, and quality white wine are key. These flavor enhancers add the right mix of savory, bright, and tangy flavors that make the dish so good.
Improper Pasta Cooking
It’s important to pair the shrimp with the right pasta. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy and unpleasant. Cook the pasta al dente, as the package suggests. Make sure the shrimp and pasta are ready at the same time.
Remember these tips to avoid common mistakes. With the right cooking tips for shrimp texture and pasta, you’ll make a perfect shrimp scampi. It will impress everyone at your table.
Tips for Meal Prep
Boost your weeknight dinners with these easy meal prep tips for Shrimp Scampi. Clean and prepare the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Also, mince garlic and chop parsley early, so they’re ready when you cook.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
Invest a bit of time in prep work to make cooking easier later. Measure out the white wine, lemon juice, and butter ahead of time. This way, you can whip up a tasty Shrimp Scampi in just 15 minutes.
Quick Serving during Busy Nights
When time is tight, this dish is a lifesaver. Cook the pasta while you sauté the shrimp and garlic in butter and olive oil. Then, toss it all together, add Parmesan and herbs, and you’re done.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
Make this recipe fit your dietary needs with a few tweaks. Try using gluten-free pasta like zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta. For dairy-free, swap butter for olive oil. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking. These changes let you enjoy Shrimp Scampi while meeting your dietary requirements.