Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 5-6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pasta or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them, if not already done. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink.
Step 5: Flip the shrimp and pour in the white wine or chicken broth. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Step 6: Squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and give everything a quick stir.
Step 7: Remove from heat and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve immediately over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Equipment and Tools
- Large skillet
- Spatula or tongs
Preparation
Before beginning, have all the ingredients measured and ready to go as the cooking process is quick. Having prepped ingredients will help you to avoid overcooking the shrimp. If serving with pasta, cook the pasta according to package instructions before starting the scampi so that both components are ready at the same time.
Cooking Process
To cook the Garlic Shrimp Scampi, melt butter in a skillet and cook garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook on one side before flipping and adding the liquid. Once the liquid has reduced and the shrimp are cooked through, finish with lemon juice and parsley, then serve.
Tips and Tricks
For a richer flavor, use a good quality butter.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly opaque when done.
Feel free to add a splash of heavy cream for a creamier sauce.
Pair the scampi with a light and crisp white wine to complement the dish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 24g
Introduction:
Transport your taste buds to coastal Italy with this simple but incredibly flavorful Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this classic dish is all about the fresh taste of the sea lifted by the punch of garlic and the zing of lemon.
Serving Suggestions:
Garlic Shrimp Scampi shines brightest when served over a bed of al dente pasta, like linguine or angel hair. It also pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. Don’t forget the crusty bread to mop up all that scrumptious sauce!
Flavor Profile:
The Garlic Shrimp Scampi offers a symphony of flavors – the sweet succulence of shrimp, the savory depth of garlic, and a bright acidity from the wine and lemon that cleanses your palate with every bite.
Conclusion:
This Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe promises to deliver a touch of gourmet to your dining table with minimal effort. Its delicate balance of rich and refreshing notes will make this meal a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the elegance and simplicity of fine dining in the comfort of your own home.
