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Classic Shrimp Scampi

Classic Shrimp Scampi

Classic Shrimp Scampi is a quick, elegant seafood dish bursting with garlic, butter, and lemon flavors. Ready in under 20 minutes, it offers a restaurant-quality taste perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. This versatile, healthy, and light recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium-large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons good quality olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Sides

  • Pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair)
  • Crusty garlic bread
  • Rice

Instructions

  1. Prep the Shrimp: Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to one minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook approximately 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
  4. Deglaze with Wine and Lemon: Pour in white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavor.
  5. Finish with Parsley and Seasoning: Turn off heat and stir in chopped parsley and red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss to coat shrimp evenly in the sauce.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp; remove as soon as they turn pink and firm to prevent rubberiness.
  • Cook over medium-high heat for slight caramelization and enhanced flavor.
  • Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, fresh taste.
  • If serving with pasta, reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
  • Opt for high-quality butter to enrich the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic shrimp, quick seafood recipe, lemon butter shrimp, easy shrimp dinner, gluten free shrimp recipe