As the sun dipped below the horizon, the aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen. It reminded me of Italy’s lively streets. Shrimp scampi, a favorite of mine, brings Italy to my table tonight. I’m thrilled to share a straightforward yet flavorful recipe with you.
Shrimp scampi is a quick and easy dish, perfect for any occasion. It has a garlic butter sauce, lemon, and parsley. The shrimp are tender and flavorful, cooked in just a few minutes. This shrimp scampi recipe is versatile, making it perfect for an elegant dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Key Takeaways
- Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe is a classic Italian-American dish featuring garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp.
- Ready in under 10 minutes, this recipe is the perfect quick and easy dinner option.
- The sauce is crafted from a harmonious mix of butter, olive oil, lemon, and fresh parsley.
- Linguine is the traditional pasta shape used for shrimp scampi, providing the perfect vehicle for the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic is the key flavor in shrimp scampi, but it’s important to cook it properly to avoid bitterness.
What exactly is shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a classic dish with roots in both Italian and American cuisine. It features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich butter sauce infused with garlic. The term “scampi” originally meant a small, lobster-like crustacean. But in the U.S., it’s mainly about this shrimp dish.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A Timeless Italian Classic
Garlic butter shrimp scampi offers a flavorful twist on the classic dish. It features a creamy, buttery sauce infused with lemon and garlic. This dish is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it ideal for an Italian-inspired dinner. The key to perfect shrimp scampi lies in the blend of garlic and butter. This combination creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats the shrimp. It’s commonly served over pasta such as angel hair or spaghetti, allowing the sauce to be fully absorbed.
“Shrimp scampi is a quintessential Italian-American dish that has become a staple on restaurant menus and in home kitchens across the country.”
shrimp scampi recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple and delicious shrimp scampi recipe. It’s a classic Italian dish with quick shrimp scampi in garlic butter sauce. Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread for a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes.
The secret to this easy shrimp scampi recipe is in the simple steps. Begin by sautéing the shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce. Then, add broth to deglaze the pan. Finish with lemon juice and parsley for a tangy, aromatic sauce. This quick shrimp scampi recipe is sure to impress with its tender shrimp and flavorful sauce.
Savor the homemade shrimp scampi served over pasta such as angel hair or fettuccine. Alternatively, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a low-carb option. This easy shrimp scampi recipe brings Italy to your table any night.
“This easy shrimp scampi recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so bright and vibrant, and it’s incredibly simple to prepare. I’ll be making this quick shrimp scampi recipe on repeat.”
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
- 1.25 pounds of extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup broth
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these simple ingredients, you can make a homemade shrimp scampi that’s both elegant and easy. The shrimp. The garlic, lemon, and parsley add flavor that takes you to the Italian coast.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Creating a flavorful shrimp scampi requires just a few key ingredients. The main ingredient is large shrimp. You’ll also need butter, olive oil, and garlic for flavor. A bit of broth adds depth. A splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley add brightness and a refreshing touch.
Here’s what you’ll need for the garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe:
- One pound of large or extra-large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
These shrimp scampi ingredients come together to create a dish that rivals restaurant-quality flavor. In just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delicious garlic butter shrimp dish ready to enjoy.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
To make a delicious shrimp scampi, remember a few key tips. Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients before you begin cooking. This dish cooks fast, so being organized is important.
When sautéing garlic, mix butter and olive oil to avoid burning the butter. Sauté the shrimp until they turn pink, taking care not to overcook them to avoid a tough texture. When adding broth, let it reduce by half. This helps concentrate the flavors.
Techniques for Tender, Flavorful Shrimp
To get tender and flavorful shrimp scampi, try these techniques:
- Choose large or extra-large shrimp for juicier results.
- Peel and devein the shrimp before cooking to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat, sautéing until they turn pink. This prevents them from becoming tough.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice and parsley. The lemon and herbs balance the rich sauce.
With these tips, your shrimp scampi will turn out perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a versatile Italian dish that pairs well with many sides. It’s best served over angel hair or linguine pasta. This way, the pasta absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite perfect.
For a healthier option, try it over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower. These choices let the shrimp and sauce shine while being light and nutritious.
Crusty bread is also great for dipping into the garlic butter sauce. Pairing the dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. They provide a perfect balance to the richness of the shrimp scampi. Shrimp scampi is guaranteed to impress your guests. This recipe serves six, but it can easily be adjusted to accommodate any number of guests. It’s ideal for everything from relaxed weeknight meals to celebratory gatherings.
Variations and Substitutions
The classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe is tasty on its own. However, you can personalize it by experimenting with different variations. For a spicy twist, mix in a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Change the parsley to fresh basil or oregano for a new flavor.
Customizing Your Shrimp Scampi
You can serve the shrimp scampi with different pasta, like linguine or fettuccine. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad.. Try out different shrimp scampi variations and shrimp scampi substitutions to find what you like best.
“The beauty of shrimp scampi is its versatility. With a few simple tweaks, you can create a dish that’s uniquely your own.”
By customizing your shrimp scampi, you can make a delicious, Italian-inspired meal that’s just right for you.
Nutritional Information for Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a healthy and low-carb dish. It contains approximately 314 calories, 14 grams of fat (including 5 grams of saturated fat), and 3 grams of carbohydrates. It also has 1 gram of dietary fiber and 40 grams of protein. This dish is rich in vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
The macronutrient breakdown for shrimp scampi nutrition is interesting. It has 53% carbohydrates, 22% fat, and 25% protein. It’s a big source of protein. Giving you 44% of the daily value. It also has potassium, accounting for 9% of the daily value, and vitamin A, representing 20% of the daily value.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 424 | – |
| Total Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 164mg | 55% |
| Sodium | 798mg | 35% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54g | 18% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 11% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Potassium | 406mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 245mg | 13% |
| Iron | 1mg | 7% |
| Choline | 98mg | 18% |
| Copper | 0.5mg | 24% |
| Selenium | 36μg | 66% |
| Vitamin C | 52mg | 52% |
Moderation is key with any dish, but shrimp scampi is a nutritious choice. It’s good for your diet, whether you’re watching calories in shrimp scampi or interested in its macronutrients. This classic Italian dish is a delicious and wholesome choice for your next meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re a fan of shrimp scampi, you might have a few questions about this delicious dish. Let’s look at the most common shrimp scampi questions:
How much time does it take to prepare shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a quick and simple dish that can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
What key ingredients are used to make shrimp scampi?
- Shrimp (typically extra-large, 21-25 pieces per pound)
- Butter
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
How should the shrimp be cooked?
Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and become opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. This keeps them tender and juicy.
How long do shrimp scampi leftovers last?
You can store leftover shrimp scampi in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it for the best taste.
What’s the best way to serve shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi is often served over spaghetti. You can also savor it with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
For delicious shrimp scampi, use high-quality ingredients and cook it right. With these shrimp scampi FAQs, you’re ready to make a tasty Italian dish!
Conclusion
This easy shrimp scampi recipe is a tasty and quick dish. It’s inspired by Italy and packs a lot of flavor. The garlic butter sauce, accented with a hint of lemon, ensures the shrimp are tender and juicy. It’s delicious served over pasta, alongside rice, or with crusty bread. Shrimp scampi is elegant and satisfying. It’s perfect for any night or a special occasion.
With a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can bring the flavors of Italy into your home. Shrimp scampi has grown from its roots to become a classic. It shows the versatility and taste of Italian cooking.
Try this easy shrimp scampi recipe. Its mix of garlic, butter, and lemon will make it a family favorite. It’s perfect for nights when you want to taste Italy at home. Buon Appetito!
FAQ
What is Shrimp scampi?
Shrimp Scampi is a beloved classic with roots in both Italian and American cuisine. It features shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce and is often served with pasta, rice, or bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
What are the essential ingredients needed to make garlic butter shrimp scampi?
The main ingredients are large shrimp, butter, olive oil, garlic, and broth. You’ll also need lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
What are the key tips for cooking perfect shrimp scampi?
To make perfect shrimp scampi, prep all your ingredients first. Sauté the garlic in a mixture of butter and olive oil, then cook the shrimp until they turn pink. Allow the broth to reduce by half, then finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
What are the different ways to serve shrimp scampi?
Serve shrimp scampi over pasta like angel hair or linguine. It’s perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce and can be served over rice or paired with crusty bread. For a low-carb alternative, serve it over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower.
Can I customize the shrimp scampi recipe?
Yes, you can customize the shrimp scampi recipe. Try substituting with chicken broth. Add crushed red pepper flakes for spice. Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano to change the flavor.
Is shrimp scampi considered a healthy dish?
Shrimp Scampi is a healthy, low-carb option, with approximately 314 calories per serving. It contains 14 grams of fat and just 3 grams of carbohydrates. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, with 40 grams of protein.