Description: This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 20 minutes. Juicy shrimp are bathed in a luscious, garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon. Serve it over pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your pantry staples, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound uncooked extra large (26-30/lb. size) shrimp, thawed & peeled, tails optional. (Details: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp. If frozen, ensure they are completely thawed for even cooking. The 26-30 size refers to the number of shrimp per pound, indicating a good size for scampi, providing a satisfying bite. Removing the tails is a personal preference – some prefer the presentation with tails on, while others find it easier to eat without.)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided. (Details: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the dish. Divide the butter – part for cooking the shrimp and part for creating the rich sauce.)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced. (Details: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best flavor. Don’t use garlic powder – it won’t deliver the same pungent and aromatic notes. Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference; some garlic enthusiasts might even add more!)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). (Details: Red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth and a touch of spice to the scampi. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance. For a spicier kick, add a pinch more; for a milder flavor, omit them altogether.)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay) or chicken broth. (Details: Dry white wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a subtle fruity and acidic note. Chicken broth is a great alcohol-free alternative, providing moisture and flavor. If using chicken broth, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to compensate for the acidity that wine would provide.)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed. (Details: Fresh lemon juice is essential for its bright, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it often contains preservatives and lacks the vibrant taste of fresh lemon.)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. (Details: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh, herbaceous flavor to the scampi. Italian parsley is generally preferred for its flat leaves and bolder flavor compared to curly parsley. Other fresh herbs like chives or basil can also be added.)
- Salt & pepper to taste. (Details: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed, as saltiness and pepperiness can vary depending on personal preference and the saltiness of the butter and broth.)
Preparation:
Step 1: Shrimp Prep: If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely under cool running water. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for browning the shrimp properly. Devein the shrimp if desired. (Details: To devein shrimp, use a small, sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp. Remove the dark vein. Rinse the shrimp thoroughly.)
Step 2: Ingredient Mise en Place: Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and measure out all the ingredients. Having everything prepared beforehand ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. (Details: “Mise en place” is a French term meaning “everything in its place.” This culinary technique involves gathering and preparing all ingredients before you begin cooking, which helps to streamline the cooking process.)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp: Melt half the butter (4 tablespoons) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 minute per side, until pink and slightly opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the shrimp to steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less desirable texture. (Details: Cooking the shrimp quickly over medium heat ensures they cook through without becoming rubbery. Use tongs to easily flip the shrimp.)
Step 2: Infuse the Garlic and Spice: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will result in a bitter taste. (Details: Cooking the garlic briefly infuses the butter with its flavor. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick.)
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine (or Broth): Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it bubble for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly and the sauce to reduce slightly. (Details: Deglazing the pan with wine helps to loosen any flavorful bits that may have stuck to the bottom, adding depth and complexity to the sauce.)
Step 4: Create the Scampi Sauce: Add the remaining butter (4 tablespoons), lemon juice, and parsley to the skillet. Once the butter melts, stir to combine all the ingredients into a cohesive sauce. (Details: The butter, lemon juice, and parsley create a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.)
Step 5: Season and Serve: Season the scampi with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired. (Details: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the scampi immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is at its peak flavor.)
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it’s:
- Fast and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce is irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with bread.
- Adaptable: Easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables.
- Restaurant-Quality: Impress your family and friends with this impressive and flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Pasta: Serve over linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Toss the pasta with the scampi sauce for maximum flavor.
- With Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The sauce soaks into the rice, making it incredibly flavorful.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
- Alongside Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
- As an Appetizer: Serve in small bowls with crusty bread for dipping as an appetizer.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley will make a big difference in the flavor of the scampi.
- Adjust the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Use High-Quality Butter: High-quality butter will result in a richer, more flavorful sauce.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg (depending on butter and broth used)
Conclusion:
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its quick preparation time, customizable ingredients, and incredibly satisfying flavor make it a staple recipe for weeknights and special gatherings alike. Embrace the simplicity and richness of this dish, and let it become a regular part of your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them until they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure they brown nicely in the pan.
- I don’t have white wine. Can I use something else?
- Yes, you can definitely substitute the white wine. Chicken broth is a great alternative, providing moisture and flavor. You could also use vegetable broth or even a squeeze of extra lemon juice with a splash of water to provide some acidity. Another option would be dry sherry.
- Can I add vegetables to this scampi?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables can make this a more complete meal. Consider adding vegetables like sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or spinach. Add the vegetables to the skillet after cooking the shrimp and sauté them until they are tender-crisp.
- How can I make this spicier?
- If you like a spicier scampi, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the sauce. For even more heat, consider using some finely chopped jalapeno pepper.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Make the sauce as directed, but don’t add the shrimp. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat the sauce in a skillet and then add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque.
