Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with these Shrimp Scampi Bowls paired with irresistible Garlic Bread! This dish combines the luscious flavors of sautéed shrimp with a hint of zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, all atop a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive weeknight feast. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 loaf of Italian bread
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil together over medium heat, creating a luxurious base.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for about a minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and golden brown.
- Next, add the shrimp, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns a beautiful pink hue and is opaque.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, allowing the vibrant flavors to meld together before removing the skillet from heat. Toss the shrimp with the cooked pasta, mixing in the chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- For the garlic bread, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise and spread butter generously on each half.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered sides of the bread.
- Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
- Serve the shrimp scampi bowls hot, accompanied by the warm, crunchy garlic bread on the side.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or spinach, for an extra burst of flavor and color. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference. For a creamier texture, consider incorporating a splash of heavy cream when tossing in the shrimp and pasta.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfecting your shrimp scampi is to avoid overcooking the shrimp. They should be cooked just until they turn pink and opaque, resulting in a tender and juicy bite. Additionally, the garlic bread should be kept a close eye on while baking to prevent it from burning; you’ll want to bring out that desirable crunch without losing the rich buttery flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What pasta works best with shrimp scampi?
While spaghetti and linguine are the classics, any pasta shape you love will complement the shrimp beautifully. Feel free to experiment!
Conclusion
These Shrimp Scampi Bowls with Garlic Bread are a perfect blend of taste, texture, and simplicity. With their zesty lemon notes and buttery richness, they are sure to become a quick favorite in your household. Gather your loved ones around the table to enjoy this delightful meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up. Bon appétit!