Shrimp Scampi with Linguine: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
This recipe for shrimp scampi with linguine is a classic for a reason – it's delicious, easy to make, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. We'll cover everything from selecting the freshest ingredients to achieving that perfect garlic-butter sauce. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves two hungry people, easily scaled up for more.
- 1 pound linguine: Choose a high-quality pasta for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Look for shrimp that are firm and smell fresh. Frozen shrimp work well too, just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds depth of flavor. You can substitute with chicken broth if you prefer.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish; dried parsley can be used in a pinch (use about 1 tablespoon).
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch adds a touch of heat.
- Lemon wedges: For serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1 minute.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked shrimp and linguine to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Add a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Season and Serve: Stir in the parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery.
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your dish.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to your scampi.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley and lemon wedges really elevate the presentation.
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This detailed recipe, complete with keyword optimization and engaging writing, is designed to rank well in search engine results and entice readers to try this delicious dish. Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family!
