Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Is there anything more comforting than a quick, flavorful dinner that feels like a gourmet meal? This Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe brings all the deliciousness of a restaurant-quality dish right to your kitchen in just 25 minutes! Succulent shrimp are perfectly sautéed in garlic and olive oil, then tossed in a luscious lemon-butter sauce that’s infused with white wine (or chicken broth). Add some linguine, and you’ve got a meal that’s both elegant and easy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Shrimp Scampi is anything but boring! It’s zesty, garlicky, buttery, and pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta. Plus:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
• Flexible: Customize it with your favorite wine, pasta, or even gluten-free alternatives.
• Flavor Explosion: Tangy lemon, savory garlic, and a dash of red pepper for a little kick.

Taste of Garlic Shrimp Scampi

The combination of garlic and lemon creates a bright, aromatic flavor profile, perfectly complementing the tender, juicy shrimp. The rich butter and olive oil add smoothness, while the splash of wine or broth gives it that extra depth. The result? A comforting dish that’s light, yet bursting with zest and freshness.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Nutrient-packed: Shrimp is low in calories and rich in protein, making this dish both indulgent and nutritious.
• Versatile: You can serve it over pasta, zoodles, or even rice!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even a special dinner party.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (non-alcoholic wine works too)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz linguine or your favorite pasta

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking shrimp and making the sauce
• Tongs or spatula for tossing pasta and shrimp
• Zester for lemon (optional but useful)

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

Tip: Save a cup of pasta water before draining, just in case you want to thin out your sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1 minute.

Toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Lemon-Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and fresh lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

Stir in the butter until it’s melted and the sauce slightly thickens. The smell at this point is heavenly!

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Add your cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Scampi

• Garlic Bread: The perfect companion to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad balances out the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted asparagus or broccoli for extra nutrients.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Scampi

• Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, fresh garlic is essential.
• Watch the Shrimp: Don’t overcook the shrimp! They only need 2-3 minutes per side to turn pink and opaque.
• Customize the Heat: If you love a bit of spice, don’t skip the red pepper flakes!
• Add Parmesan: For an extra layer of richness, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking by running them under cold water or refrigerating overnight.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) if you want to keep it low-carb.

Q: What can I use instead of wine?
A: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or non-alcoholic white wine works perfectly.

Q: How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
A: Shrimp cook quickly, so as soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready! Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close eye on them.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that balances vibrant, tangy flavors with the richness of butter and garlic. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it with pasta, bread, or a fresh salad, it’s bound to become a favorite!

Loved this recipe? Be sure to leave a review and share your photos with me on Pinterest! And if you’re a fan of quick seafood dishes, don’t miss some of my other favorite seafood recipes:

• New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp
• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
• Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approx. 450
• Protein: 26g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 18g

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