Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a beloved dish that showcases the harmonious marriage of succulent seafood and the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic and butter. This classic Italian-American dish has its roots in the traditional Italian cuisine, where the term “scampi” refers to langoustines, a type of small lobster. However, in the United States, shrimp has become the seafood of choice for this dish, thanks to its widespread availability and delicate, sweet flavor.

The star of this culinary creation is undoubtedly the garlic butter sauce, which elevates the natural taste of the shrimp to new heights. The sauce is crafted by sautéing minced garlic in butter until it becomes fragrant and golden, infusing the butter with its pungent, slightly sweet essence. This garlic-infused butter serves as the base for the scampi sauce, which is further enhanced by the addition of white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. The acidity of the wine and lemon juice helps to balance the richness of the butter, while the red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.

As the shrimp cooks in this flavorful sauce, it absorbs the delightful notes of garlic and butter, becoming tender and succulent. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which adds a pop of color and a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

One of the reasons garlic butter shrimp scampi has become a timeless favorite is its versatility. It can be served as an appetizer or main course, and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Many enjoy it tossed with al dente pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, which allows the noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Others prefer to savor the shrimp on its own, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to mop up the remaining garlic butter.

The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent. The dish’s popularity has endured for decades, cementing its status as a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine. Whether enjoyed at a fancy restaurant or prepared at home, garlic butter shrimp scampi never fails to impress with its simple yet irresistible flavors, making it a go-to choice for seafood lovers and garlic enthusiasts alike.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

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Succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a bright touch of lemon and parsley.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
• Category: Entrée

Ingredients

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• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 lb spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente

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Instructions

1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. If using wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat.
7. In a large bowl or the pasta pot, toss the cooked spaghetti or linguine with the shrimp and garlic butter sauce until the pasta is well coated.
8. Serve the shrimp scampi hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

• For extra flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce before tossing with the pasta.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk in 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little cold water before adding the lemon juice and parsley.

If you’re hungry for more garlic wisdom, check out our Garlic Gardening Guide! Discover different garlic varieties, learn the art of growing and harvesting garlic, and unlock a treasure trove of delectable garlic recipes to elevate your culinary skills. Also, read our article on Choosing the Right Garlic: Fresh, Dried, Powder?.