Classic Shrimp Scampi

Classic Shrimp Scampi – A Timeless Favorite

This Classic Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for shrimp lovers. Cooked in a buttery white wine sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under an hour. Serve it for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 10 Minutes
• Cook Time: 20 Minutes
• Total Time: 30 Minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• Kosher salt

• 16 ounces linguine

• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1/3 cup dry white wine

• Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Season shrimp with kosher salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (30 seconds to 1 minute).

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just done, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet, simmering for 2 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return shrimp to the skillet along with cooked linguine, butter, and 1/2 cup pasta water. Toss and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce is silky. Adjust with more pasta water if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Season with salt. Stir in parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Chef’s Tip:

Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and dry white wine for the best flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

Perfect Pairing:

Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio and serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for shrimp scampi?

Yes! While linguine is traditionally used, you can swap it with other types of pasta such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even angel hair. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?

Yes, you can make shrimp scampi without wine. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor. Some people also use a splash of lemon juice or a bit of white grape juice for a fruity alternative.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly. They should turn pink and opaque when cooked through, usually within 1-2 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

How can I make the dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also try adding finely chopped fresh chili peppers.

Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?

You can substitute olive oil with another mild oil, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil gives the dish a distinct flavor that complements the shrimp and garlic. Using butter or a combination of butter and oil also works well for richness.

How can I make shrimp scampi healthier?

To make this dish lighter, you can use less butter and olive oil, or swap for a low-fat version of butter. Using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of salt can also make the dish a bit healthier while maintaining flavor.