Description
Culinary magic unfolds with this classic shrimp scampi, blending garlic-kissed butter, zesty lemon, and succulent shrimp over perfectly al dente pasta. Mediterranean flavors dance on your plate, promising a quick and elegant dinner that whisks you straight to coastal Italian charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish and Serving:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
- Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Carefully blot shrimp with absorbent towels, creating a dry surface for optimal seasoning. Sprinkle with delicate salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance natural flavors.
- Warm a generous swirl of olive oil and velvety butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Introduce shrimp to the sizzling pan, allowing each side to transform into a delicate pink hue within 1-2 minutes. Gently transfer cooked shellfish to a waiting plate.
- Utilize the same skillet’s residual warmth, melt remaining butter and introduce minced garlic. Let aromatic notes dance for half a minute. Incorporate fiery red pepper flakes for subtle heat, then deglaze with crisp white wine. Allow liquid to dramatically reduce by half, concentrating flavors.
- Brighten the sauce with zesty lemon juice and fragrant zest. Reunite shrimp with the luxurious sauce, gently tossing to ensure even coating and thorough warming. Scatter freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and herbaceous essence.
- Present this elegant seafood creation atop silky pasta, fluffy rice, or alongside crusty artisan bread. Enhance with a delicate sprinkle of aged Parmesan and additional lemon wedges for those craving extra citrus brightness.
Notes
- Quick-dry technique ensures crispy, perfectly cooked shrimp without excess moisture.
- Use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic for maximum flavor depth in the sauce.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp by watching for the pink and opaque color change, which happens quickly.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using alternative spices like cayenne or chili powder.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 220mg