Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that features shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic, butter, and white wine sauce. It’s typically served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Here’s a basic recipe for Shrimp Scampi:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. If desired, you can leave the tails on for presentation.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them, as they can become tough.
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the white wine and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a couple of minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until it melts and incorporates into the sauce.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and toss them in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute or two, just until everything is heated through.
- Season the Shrimp Scampi with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish.
- Serve the Shrimp Scampi over cooked pasta or with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Scampi! It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
