Shrimp Scampi Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Shrimp Scampi Delight is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the best of seafood and pasta. With a zesty lemon kick and a hint of spice, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Delight

Shrimp is the star of the dish, offering a tender, juicy bite that pairs beautifully with the sauce. Garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the seafood's sweetness. When you melt butter with olive oil, you get a rich base that coats the pasta luxuriously. Dry white wine introduces a subtle acidity that balances the butteriness, while the lemon juice brightens the entire dish. Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and freshness, and Parmesan cheese offers a savory finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
  • If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce. For a wine pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish's flavors nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.
What if I don't have wine?
You can substitute chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance and combine them just before serving.

Shrimp Scampi Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Begin by cooking your linguine according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente so it maintains a bit of bite when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside, keeping it warm.

In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the olive oil over medium heat. This combination ensures the butter doesn't brown too quickly, giving you a smooth and rich base. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute or two until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn as that can add bitterness.

Next, introduce the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, roughly 2-3 minutes per side. You want them just cooked through to maintain their juicy texture.

Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the wine reduces slightly.

Now, toss the cooked linguine with the shrimp mixture in the skillet. Use tongs to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce, giving each bite a delicious flavor.

Remove from heat and finish by garnishing with a generous sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and buttery without feeling heavy.
  • Comes together in under 30 minutes.
  • Perfect balance of flavors with a slight kick from red pepper flakes.
  • Easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup dry white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
8 oz of linguine pasta
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and add olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in the shrimp, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Toss the cooked linguine with the shrimp mixture in the skillet until well coated.
7. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.

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