Elegant Shrimp Scampi

Name: Elegant Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup dry white wine; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt (to taste); Black pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); Lemon wedges (for serving)

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 10 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're looking to impress with minimal effort, Elegant Shrimp Scampi is your go-to dish. It's quick to whip up but feels like a fine dining experience at home. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a small gathering.

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Ingredients for Elegant Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp: The star of the dish, bringing a delicate seafood flavor. Make sure they're large and deveined for the best texture.

Butter: Adds richness and forms the base of the sauce. Unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic foundation. Essential for that classic scampi flavor.

Dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and adds a subtle acidity. Choose a wine you'd enjoy sipping.

Lemon juice: Brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.

Red pepper flakes: Offers a gentle kick of heat, perfectly enhancing the overall flavor.

Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.

Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to finish the dish.

Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp rather than pre-cooked or frozen. If frozen is your only option, thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Don’t rush the garlic — give it time to infuse the butter properly without burning it.
Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes — start with less, then add more if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it over pasta or rice for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, try it atop a bed of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of seafood?: Absolutely! Scallops or chunks of firm fish like cod would be great alternatives.
What if I don't have white wine?: You can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How do I store leftovers?: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.

Elegant Shrimp Scampi Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As the butter begins to bubble slightly, toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about a minute. You'll know it's ready when your kitchen fills with that unmistakable garlic aroma.

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. This ensures they don't overcook while you prepare the sauce.

With the shrimp out, pour the white wine and lemon juice into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom — these are flavor gold! Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

Return the shrimp to the skillet, and add the remaining butter. Toss everything together so the shrimp is coated in the delicious sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to your liking.

Finally, garnish with a generous amount of fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy, ready in under 20 minutes.
Rich, buttery sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Uses simple, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
Adaptable to what you have on hand or personal taste preferences.
Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weekday dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

4 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1/4 cup dry white wine

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Salt (to taste)

Black pepper (to taste)

2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque.

4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, add white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.

6. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly.

7. Return shrimp to the skillet, add remaining butter, and toss to coat in the sauce.