Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi is a classic and elegant Italian-American dish that combines shrimp with a rich, buttery, garlicky sauce, often served over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for shrimp scampi:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

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. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp:

   • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
   • Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
   • Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the scampi sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly.
   • Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve:

   • Divide the shrimp scampi and pasta between plates. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.

Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with the shrimp and pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!