Are you craving a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Easy Shrimp Scampi! This dish combines succulent shrimp, fresh pasta, and zesty garlic, all in a buttery sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal when time is tight. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a flavorful feast that impresses. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make dinner easy and delicious!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
The shrimp serves as the star of this dish. I like to use large shrimp for a better bite. Pasta brings the dish together and gives a hearty feel. I prefer spaghetti or linguine for their ability to hold sauce well. Butter and olive oil add rich flavor and help cook the shrimp perfectly.
Seasonings and Extras
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Juice and zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Garlic adds a strong and tasty punch. It fills the kitchen with a warm aroma. Lemon brightens the dish, adding a fresh zing. The zest brings extra flavor, so don’t skip it. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick, but you can adjust the amount to fit your taste.
Garnishes
– ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Parmesan cheese, for serving
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. I use it as a garnish to brighten up the dish. Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, salty touch. Cherry tomatoes burst with juice, bringing added sweetness and a touch of acidity to balance the flavors. You can find the full recipe to guide you through this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Cooking the Pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to the package until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to save about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
Sautéing Garlic and Red Pepper
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the butter is melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not brown.
Cooking the Shrimp
Adding Shrimp to the Skillet
Next, toss in 1 lb of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when done.
Seasoning and Checking Doneness
Make sure to check that the shrimp is cooked through. It should be firm to the touch. If it still looks a bit translucent, give it another minute in the skillet.
Final Steps
Incorporating Tomatoes and Lemon
Now, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Then, stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon. If the mix looks dry, splash in some reserved pasta water. Adjust until you reach your desired consistency.
Tossing with Cooked Pasta
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well mixed. Don’t forget to stir in ½ cup of chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Now you have a colorful, flavorful shrimp scampi ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To cook shrimp perfectly, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a light smell of the sea. When cooking, heat your skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil until they shimmer. Then, add garlic and red pepper flakes first. This brings out their flavors. When the garlic smells great, add the shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes. Flip them halfway through. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
If you want to adjust seasoning, always taste as you go. Add salt and pepper little by little. This helps you find the right balance. You can also add more lemon juice for a zesty kick.
Enhancing Flavor
For a flavor boost, consider add-ins like spinach or mushrooms. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These will add depth and freshness to the dish.
When using lemon zest, choose a bright lemon. Use a microplane to zest the lemon peel. This gives you fine zest without the bitter pith. Mix the zest into the sauce for a fresh burst of flavor.
Presentation Tips
To plate the dish beautifully, start with a twirl of pasta in the center. Use a fork or tongs for a neat look. Then, gently spoon the shrimp and sauce over the pasta.
Garnishing ideas include fresh parsley, which adds color and freshness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top is a great finishing touch. You can also add a lemon wedge on the side to enhance the look and taste. For the full recipe, check out the link provided.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
If you need to change the recipe, there are easy swaps.
– Gluten-free pasta options: Use gluten-free spaghetti or rice noodles. They cook well and blend nicely with the dish.
– Low-carb alternatives: Try spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. Both options keep the meal light and fresh.
Flavor Variations
Changing up flavors can make shrimp scampi even more fun.
– Adding different herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can enhance the dish. Each herb adds a unique twist.
– Substitute ingredients: Swap out shrimp for scallops or chicken. You can also use a mix of seafood for a tasty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing shrimp scampi with the right sides makes for a great meal.
– Pairing with side dishes: Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread. These sides complement the flavors well.
– Wine recommendations: A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, works best. It balances the dish and adds a nice touch.
For the full recipe, check out the Quick & Zesty Shrimp Scampi section above.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the shrimp scampi cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. In the fridge, shrimp scampi lasts about 2 to 3 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing Tips
To freeze shrimp scampi, use a freezer-safe container. Let it cool completely first. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight.
When reheating, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Reheating Suggestions
The best way to reheat shrimp scampi is in a skillet. This method helps keep the shrimp tender. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
To keep the dish flavorful, add a bit of olive oil or butter when reheating. This will help restore some of the original taste. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water from the original recipe. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and keeps the dish tasty.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you don’t have white wine, use chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for acidity. This keeps the flavors bright and fresh in your shrimp scampi.
Cooking Time Questions
How long should shrimp be cooked?
Shrimp cook quickly. Typically, about 2-3 minutes is enough. Look for shrimp to turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep some parts ahead. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately. Store them in the fridge. Keep them in airtight containers for up to 24 hours. Combine them just before serving for the best taste.
Serving Size Questions
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields about 4 servings. It works well for a family dinner or a small gathering. You can easily adjust the portions based on your needs.
Can the recipe be scaled up or down?
Yes, you can scale this recipe easily. If you want more servings, double the ingredients. For fewer servings, cut them in half. Just keep the cooking times the same, and you’ll have a great meal every time.
This blog post covered key ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and helpful tips for an easy shrimp dish. You learned how to cook shrimp, choose seasonings, and garnish your meal beautifully. Remember, you can adjust flavors and try variations to fit your tastes. Whether for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple and fun to make. Enjoy your cooking and impress your loved ones with this tasty recipe!
