Main Dishes Recipes
Recipe:

Shrimp Scampi

By Chef Costa - 03/13/2025

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with white wine, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a quick and elegant dish perfect for any occasion.

Preparation and Yield

Cook time: 10 min Prep time: 10 min Total time: 20 min 4 servings

Nutrition:

350 calories per serving 18 grams of fat per serving

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined 3 tbsp unsalted butter 3 tbsp olive oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 1/3 cup dry white wine Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Salt and black pepper, to taste 1 lb linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the pan, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Pour the white wine into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce for about 2 minutes, then stir in the lemon juice.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and remove from heat.
Serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Enjoy!

The Secret to Perfect Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi is all about balance—garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine create a harmonious blend of flavors. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender. Using fresh ingredients, like high-quality shrimp and freshly squeezed lemon juice, will make a significant difference in the final taste.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Although Shrimp Scampi is often served over linguine or spaghetti, you can experiment with different pasta types. Angel hair pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully, while a thicker fettuccine offers a heartier bite. If you prefer a low-carb option, try serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Why White Wine Matters

The addition of dry white wine enhances the flavor profile of Shrimp Scampi, giving it depth and complexity. A good Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best, as they provide acidity without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, substitute with chicken broth and a dash of white wine vinegar.

FAQs about Shrimp Scampi

1 What is the best type of shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best for Shrimp Scampi, as they stay juicy and flavorful. Fresh, wild-caught shrimp provide the best taste, but frozen shrimp can also be used if properly thawed before cooking.

2 Can I make Shrimp Scampi without wine?

Yes! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute white wine with chicken broth and a dash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar. This will still give the dish the tangy, bright flavor it needs.

3 What pasta pairs best with Shrimp Scampi?

Linguine and spaghetti are the most popular choices, as they absorb the sauce well. However, you can also use angel hair for a lighter option or fettuccine for a heartier bite.

4 How can I make Shrimp Scampi healthier?

For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the butter, and add extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

5 Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?

While possible, using pre-cooked shrimp is not ideal as they can become rubbery when reheated. If you must use them, add them at the very end and heat just until warmed through.