Shrimp Scampi with Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
This shrimp scampi with pasta recipe is a classic for a reason! It's quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. We'll walk you through each step, ensuring you create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape!
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Make sure to buy good quality shrimp for the best flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better flavor control.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Don't skip the garlic! It's the heart of the scampi.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken broth.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is always best!
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and beautiful color.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course!
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Making the Scampi:
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it will become bitter.
- Add the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor. Let it simmer for a minute or two.
- Stir in the lemon juice and parsley: Add the lemon juice and parsley and stir to combine.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season to taste: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Serving Your Shrimp Scampi:
Serve immediately. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp scampi with pasta!
Tips and Variations:
- Add some vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini to your scampi.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use different pasta: Try this recipe with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or angel hair.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
This shrimp scampi recipe is a versatile and adaptable dish. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own perfect version! Enjoy!
