Description
Easy Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of lemon and white wine. Perfectly paired with linguine pasta or crusty bread, this quick and flavorful recipe is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional
- 8 oz linguine pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta (Optional): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside until ready to toss with the shrimp scampi.
- Heat Fat: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter until foamy and hot.
- Sauté Garlic and Spice: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying the flavor.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the remaining tablespoon of butter, allowing the sauce to combine and become rich and silky.
- Finish with Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbal note.
- Toss and Serve: If using pasta, toss the linguine with the shrimp and sauce until well coated. Serve immediately with crusty bread if desired. Enjoy your classic shrimp scampi!
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- White wine adds acidity and depth; chicken broth can be substituted if preferred or for non-alcoholic option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit completely.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
- Serve with a wedge of lemon and extra parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: shrimp scampi, Italian shrimp recipe, seafood pasta, easy shrimp dinner, garlic butter shrimp
