Hello, seafood lovers! If you’re in the mood for a quick, elegant meal, this Shrimp Scampi recipe is perfect for you. With succulent shrimp, a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, and fresh basil, this dish is light yet flavorful. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions. Let’s dive into this classic recipe!
Introduction
Shrimp Scampi is a beloved dish that brings together the flavors of garlic, lemon, and butter in a delightful sauce. Traditionally an Italian-American dish, shrimp scampi is known for its simplicity and delicious flavor. This recipe features a quick, zesty sauce that highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp, finished with fresh basil and capers. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party addition.
Ingredients
To make Shrimp Scampi, gather the following ingredients:
Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off (large – about 15-20 count per pound)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
Garnish
- 3 tablespoons capers
- 3 tablespoons lemon zest
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Shrimp
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat until hot. Add olive oil—it should spread easily but not sizzle or burn.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer, without overcrowding (you might need to cook in two batches). Sprinkle the shrimp with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Flip and Cook: Cook the shrimp, flipping once or twice, until they are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes total. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- Deglaze the Pan: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, lemon juice, and white wine. Use a spatula to scrape up any bits left from cooking the shrimp, as this adds flavor to the sauce.
- Cook the Sauce: Reduce the heat slightly and let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly and the garlic softens.
- Add Butter: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the butter, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Assemble the Dish
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with 2 tablespoons of capers. Stir well, letting the shrimp reheat on low.
- Garnish and Serve: When serving, sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of capers, chopped fresh basil, and lemon zest on top. For extra lemony flavor, squeeze a bit more lemon juice over the shrimp, if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth or extra lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.
- Serve Quickly: Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed right after cooking, as shrimp can toughen upon reheating.
Cooking Tips
Here are some additional tips for making the best Shrimp Scampi:
- Cooking Shrimp Evenly: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear.
- Use a Good Quality Skillet: A high-sided skillet helps contain the sauce and prevents splattering.
- Layer Flavors: Deglazing the pan adds depth to the sauce by incorporating all the tasty browned bits from the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shrimp Scampi with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic butter sauce. It’s also fantastic over pasta, rice, or even a bed of steamed vegetables for a lighter option. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp side salad or a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of Shrimp Scampi per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 240mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 25%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 15%
With a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and a low carb count, shrimp scampi is both satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat: To reheat, warm the shrimp and sauce gently on low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of broth to refresh the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well in this recipe! Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking.
What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, rice, or steamed vegetables. It’s also great with a side salad or a light soup.
Can I make Shrimp Scampi without wine?
Absolutely! You can substitute white wine with chicken broth or additional lemon juice.
Related Recipes
If you love shrimp scampi, you might enjoy these related recipes:
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful Shrimp Scampi recipe that’s both quick and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Bon appétit!