Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the sea right to your dinner table! This shrimp scampi recipe, inspired by culinary genius, is the perfect balance of buttery goodness and zest from fresh lemon juice. With a touch of garlic and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or a warm gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the bliss of this flavorful dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Be cautious not to let it burn!
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) along with the lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to get all those tasty bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the cooked linguine or spaghetti to the skillet, along with the remaining butter and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Toss everything together until combined and well-coated.
- Remove from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, generously topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that final touch of decadence.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest along with the juice. This dish is versatile; feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Pair it with a light salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Cooking Techniques
This shrimp scampi makes use of simple yet effective techniques to build rich flavors. Sautéing the garlic gently brings out its aroma without bitterness, while the searing of shrimp in hot oil locks in the moisture. Simmering the sauce allows it to concentrate the flavors beautifully, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the pan.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It will still provide a savory depth to the dish.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and simply reheat with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Gather your loved ones around the table and serve up this shrimp scampi that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion. With its bright notes of lemon and the comforting warmth of butter and herbs, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!