If you’re craving a quick and flavorful meal, Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi is your answer. This dish brings together the vibrant zest of lemon, the warm kick of garlic, and succulent shrimp for a meal that's both simple and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a surefire way to delight your taste buds.
Shrimp: The star of the dish, they soak up all the flavors beautifully. Choose fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease.
Linguine pasta: Provides a great base that captures and holds onto the sauce. Al dente is the way to go for that perfect texture.
Olive oil and butter: The dynamic duo that forms the base of your sauce, giving it richness and depth.
Garlic: This aromatic is essential for adding a punch of flavor. Mince it finely for even distribution.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a tangy kick that complements the shrimp perfectly.
White wine: Enhances the sauce with its acidity and depth. Go for a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc.
Red pepper flakes: Just a hint for a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
Parsley: Fresh and green, it adds a pop of color and a hint of earthiness.
Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor. Use a microplane to zest for best results.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with a savory, cheesy touch.
This Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. A glass of the same white wine you used in the dish will round out the meal beautifully.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the linguine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This typically takes about 9-11 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, saving a cup of pasta water for later if needed.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and starts to bubble, add the minced garlic. You'll want to sauté this for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 3 minutes on each side. You'll know they're ready when they turn pink and opaque.
Pour in the lemon juice, white wine, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the alcohol in the wine to cook off slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. Add the remaining butter, lemon zest, and parsley. Stir until the butter melts completely into the sauce.
Finally, season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a taste and adjust as needed. Just before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for that final touch of savory goodness.
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