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Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic butter and olive oil sauce, brightened with fresh lemon juice, white wine, and parsley. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Protein

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Cooking Fats and Aromatics

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs and Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Serving

  • Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done, mince the garlic, squeeze fresh lemon juice, and chop the fresh parsley. This preparation helps the cooking process flow smoothly.
  2. Sauté Garlic in Butter and Olive Oil: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it to maintain a bright, mellow flavor.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly opaque, then flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fully cooked but still tender.
  4. Deglaze with White Wine and Lemon: Pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any flavorful bits. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
  5. Finish with Parsley and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the shrimp; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Use fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley for the best vibrant flavor.
  • Choose unsalted butter and high-quality extra virgin olive oil for optimal taste.
  • If serving with pasta, reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
  • Warm your serving dish to keep the Shrimp Scampi hotter for longer and enhance the dining experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic shrimp, easy shrimp recipe, Italian-American seafood, quick dinner, lemon garlic shrimp, weeknight dinner