Shrimp Scampi | An Easy 10-Minute Dinner Recipe
Recipe Overview
Overview
Shrimp scampi is a beloved classic that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and white wine, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting. This recipe is particularly appealing because it can be prepared in just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. The key to a great shrimp scampi lies in the quality of the shrimp and the balance of flavors in the sauce.
The process begins with sautéing minced garlic in a mixture of butter and olive oil, which creates a fragrant base for the dish. Adding white wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps to deglaze the pan, capturing all those delicious bits left behind. The shrimp are then added and cooked until they turn pink and opaque, which is a sign that they are perfectly done. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in a matter of seconds.
For serving, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. This dish can be served over a variety of bases, including traditional pasta, zoodles for a lighter option, or even creamy mashed cauliflower. Each option brings its own unique twist to the classic recipe, allowing for versatility depending on dietary preferences.
Overall, shrimp scampi is a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also impresses visually. Its simplicity and speed make it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this shrimp scampi is sure to be a hit.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Add 3 tbsp of butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
Add 4 minced garlic cloves to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Tip: Feel free to add more garlic if you like your shrimp extra garlicky.
Add half a cup of dry white wine to the skillet.
Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet.
Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, and let it reduce by half for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add 1 and 1/2 lbs of large or jumbo shrimp to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes.
Tip: Don't overcook the shrimp or they'll turn out rubbery.
Add a squeeze of lemon from half of a lemon to the shrimp.
Tip: Squeeze lemon over your hands to catch the seeds.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tip: Chop extra parsley for garnishing to enhance presentation.
Stir everything together one last time before serving.
Steam cauliflower and add sautéed garlic, olive oil, chopped parsley, and chives.
Tip: Use an immersion blender for a creamier texture if your cauliflower is undercooked.
Use an immersion blender to blend the cauliflower for a creamier texture.
Smear generous spoonfuls of the cauliflower mash on a plate.
Use tongs to add a few shrimp on top of the cauliflower mash.
Drizzle warm lemon garlic butter sauce over the mash.
Tip: Drizzle warm lemon garlic butter sauce over the mash for added flavor.
Add zucchini noodles to the remaining shrimp in the skillet and toss together.
Serve the shrimp and zoodles in a bowl.
Tip: Serve shrimp scampi over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal in cooler weather.
Tip: Leftovers will keep for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Shellfish
→ Substitution: Tofu or Chicken
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Vegan Butter
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Shrimp cook extremely fast, making them ideal for quick meals.
- •Adding a splash of white wine elevates the flavor of shrimp scampi.
- •Overcooking shrimp can result in a rubbery texture.
- •Zucchini noodles are a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
