Easy Shrimp Scampi

Easy Shrimp Scampi

This Easy Shrimp Scampi is a quick and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion!

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Ingredients

(Serves 4)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (or your choice of pasta)
• Salt (for pasta water)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until they turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter.
• Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
• Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
• Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce. Add a little reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce if needed.
• Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the sauce.

5. Serve

• Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for freshness.
• Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

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Tips

• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth works well to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Extra Flavor: For added richness, you can stir in a little grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

This Easy Shrimp Scampi is quick to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or a special dinner. Enjoy! 🍤🍝