Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that is both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious sauce of garlic, butter, and white wine, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner occasion. The addition of lemon juice and fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding layers of flavor that perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Serve it over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Ready in just minutes, Shrimp Scampi is a delightful and satisfying dish that will impress any seafood lover.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine and Finish: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges.
This Shrimp Scampi is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the richness of garlic and butter with the freshness of lemon and parsley, creating a perfect balance that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy it as a satisfying main course that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious.
