This Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi is a delicious dish made with fresh shrimp, garlic, and butter, all tossed with pasta. It’s bursting with flavor and comes together in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine is ideal because it captures the sauce well, but spaghetti works beautifully too! If you’re avoiding gluten, try using gluten-free pasta for the same delightful experience.
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw them beforehand. Another alternative could be scallops for a different twist.
Butter & Olive Oil: I like using both for flavor depth; however, substitute coconut oil or a light margarine for a dairy-free option if needed.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds amazing flavor, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. A splash of vinegar can also work in a pinch!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a kick, but if you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to leave them out or use paprika instead for mild flavor.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s pretty easy once you get the hang of it. The key is to not overcook them! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and ensure your shrimp are dry (pat with a paper towel).
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Watch closely!
- Remove them right when they’re done; they’ll continue cooking slightly from residual heat. This keeps them tender and juicy.
Perfectly cooked shrimp are a highlight of this dish—great with the buttery sauce!
Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy Shrimp Scampi will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. So, in about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt beautifully, then add in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but don’t let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp! Toss them into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, then cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. This should be quick—don’t overcook them!
4. Make the Sauce:
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
5. Combine and Serve!
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and lemon juice to the sauce, stirring until the butter is melted. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix to coat them in the sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, add lemon slices for garnish if you like, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your wonderful and easy Shrimp Scampi! It’s perfect for a quick dinner and absolutely packed with flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp ahead of time for the best results. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you’d like to avoid wine, chicken broth is a great alternative and adds great flavor. You can also use vegetable broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water for a similar taste profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and toss them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve for a quick meal!
