Shrimp Scampi Recipe

This Shrimp Scampi recipe is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for weeknights or special meals. Made with fresh shrimp, garlic, butter, and white wine, it pairs perfectly with angel hair pasta. Customize it with added vegetables or spice for a unique twist. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with freshness, and guaranteed to elevate your dinner table.

Ingredients

For the Scampi:

• 8 oz. angel hair pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 5 tablespoons salted butter
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup roughly chopped parsley
• 1 fresh lemon, cut into wedges
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (from a block)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried basil, mustard powder, seasoned salt
• 1/4 teaspoon each: smoked paprika, black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions

Prep Work:

1. Combine chicken broth and seasonings in a small bowl and set aside.
2. Measure all remaining ingredients in advance, as this recipe cooks quickly.
3. Place Parmesan cheese in a small jar with a lid; it will be combined with pasta water before adding to the dish.
4. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry. Remove shells, tails, and veins as needed.

Make the Scampi:

1. Begin boiling water for the pasta. Once it reaches a rolling boil, generously salt the water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. They will finish cooking later.
3. Turn off the heat and add the white wine to the skillet. Return heat to medium and let the wine simmer, reducing by half (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and butter to the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the butter from separating.
5. Stir in the chicken broth mixture and let it simmer gently for 5-6 minutes to reduce and concentrate flavors.
6. Cook the pasta to al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Add the pasta water to the jar with Parmesan cheese, seal, and shake thoroughly to combine.
7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, pouring the Parmesan mixture over the top. Use tongs to toss and coat evenly.
8. Return shrimp and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Freshly cracked lemon pepper seasoning is also a great option (see notes).
10. Remove skillet from heat, squeeze 2-3 lemon wedges over the dish, and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with additional lemon wedges and Parmesan cheese if desired.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and fresh lemon creates a rich and vibrant sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
• Restaurant-Quality: Bring a gourmet dining experience to your home with this elegant dish.
• Customizable: Adjust spices and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tips

• Shrimp Tips: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water; it’s crucial for creating a creamy sauce.
• Wine Substitute: Replace white wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option.
• Butter Temperature: Cook butter over medium-low heat to prevent it from separating or burning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu.
• Pasta Options: Use linguine, spaghetti, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
• Vegetable Additions: Include spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Herb Choices: Replace parsley with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: Yes, replace butter with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free Parmesan.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.

Q: What wine should I use? A: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best. Avoid sweet wines.

Q: Can I make it spicy? A: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
• For special occasions, serve alongside roasted vegetables or creamy risotto.