Shrimp Scampi Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This shrimp scampi recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinners alike. You’ll love how the garlicky butter sauce coats each shrimp, creating a dish that’s both rich and fresh.

• It comes together in under 20 minutes, so dinner is ready before you know it.
• The bright lemon and parsley add a zesty kick that balances the buttery richness.
• Plus, it’s versatile—serve over pasta, with crusty bread, or even on its own for a light meal.

Recipe

Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. If serving with pasta, cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper.
6. If using pasta, toss with the shrimp and sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Serve immediately.

Notes:

• For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
• Substitute chicken broth for white wine if preferred.

Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutrition

Shrimp scampi is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing shrimp scampi with pasta, like linguine or angel hair, because it soaks up the garlicky butter sauce perfectly. For sides, I often go for a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness. Sometimes, I’ll even add a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of flavor!

Pasta Pairings

When it comes to serving shrimp scampi, pairing it with the right pasta can make all the difference. I always think about pasta textures and sauce compatibility—shrimp scampi’s rich, garlicky butter sauce clings best to long, thin noodles like linguine or spaghetti. The smooth surface lets the sauce coat every bite, while the firmness of al dente pasta holds up to the shrimp’s tenderness. Sometimes, I’ll toss in angel hair for a lighter option or fettuccine for extra thickness. Remember, the pasta shouldn’t overpower the dish; it’s there to highlight those succulent shrimp and vibrant flavors.

Side Dishes

Ever wonder what sides can turn shrimp scampi into a full, satisfying meal? I’ve found that the perfect accompaniments can elevate this dish to something truly special. A crisp Caesar salad adds a rejuvenating crunch, while garlic bread soaks up that delicious buttery sauce. For a lighter option, steamed asparagus or roasted veggies bring a nice flavor balance. I also love pairing it with a simple risotto or a tangy caprese salad for a touch of creaminess. These sides not only complement the shrimp’s richness but also make the meal feel complete. Trust me, you’ll want to try them all!