Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi:

When it comes to quick, mouthwatering meals, nothing quite compares to the classic Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Perfect for a busy weekday dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish combines bold, fresh flavors with an effortless cooking process. With the right ingredients and a touch of culinary finesse, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and tips to perfect this timeless recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for hectic schedules.
• Versatile: Equally suitable for family dinners or dinner parties.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and wine creates an irresistible sauce.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, high-quality ingredients make it easy yet gourmet.

Ingredients and Tips

To achieve the best results, focus on the quality of your ingredients:

1. Shrimp: Opt for large (16-20 count) shrimp. Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will ensure the best flavor. Leaving the tails on adds a touch of elegance.
2. Pasta: Linguine is the classic choice, but you can substitute with fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred. Cook the pasta al dente in lightly salted water to maintain texture.
3. Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of these fats adds richness and enhances flavor. Use unsalted butter to control the salt level.
4. Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for that bold and aromatic base.
5. White Wine: A dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works best. Avoid cooking wine; its inferior quality can affect the dish’s taste.
6. Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the dish with its signature brightness. Avoid bottled lemon juice for an authentic flavor.
7. Seasonings: Use freshly ground black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat and balanced seasoning.
8. Parsley: Finely chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
9. Parmesan Cheese: A small chunk of high-quality Parmesan, freshly grated, takes this dish to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is the star of any table. Complement its flavors with simple, understated sides:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the buttery wine sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the garlic flavors.
• Salads: A leafy green salad or a classic Caprese salad provides a refreshing balance.
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed zucchini are excellent choices.

Pro Tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—about one minute per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Timing is Everything: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Balance the Sauce: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning, lemon juice, or wine as needed.
• Serve Immediately: Scampi is best enjoyed hot, right after it’s cooked.

A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a go-to choice for impressing guests or treating your family to something special. Now, let’s move on to the recipe so you can recreate this masterpiece at home.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe:

Quick and Elegant Shrimp Scampi This dish combines vibrant lemon, rich garlic, and tender shrimp for a deliciously simple meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 529 kcal

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces linguine, cooked al dente in lightly salted water
• 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (16-20 count), shelled and deveined (optional: tails on)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (for garnish)
• Extra parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts and becomes foamy, increase the heat to high.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for one minute. Flip the shrimp, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional minute. Avoid overcooking. Remove shrimp and set aside on a warm plate.
3. To the same skillet, add white wine, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with black pepper and salt. Increase the heat to high and let the sauce boil for 2-3 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Return the shrimp to the skillet and add chopped parsley. Stir until the shrimp are evenly coated in the sauce.
5. Serve immediately over the cooked linguine. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with extra parsley, if desired. Enjoy!