Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Savory and Simple Meal

Craving a quick yet delicious meal? Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is your answer! This savory dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, I’ll guide you through each step. From selecting the best shrimp to perfecting your pasta, you’ll impress your family or guests in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s easy to master!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– 1 lemon, zest and juice

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Use large shrimp for this dish. They cook fast and taste great. If you prefer, you can use medium shrimp, but adjust cooking time. I like linguine for its texture, but spaghetti works too. You can choose whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred garlic can work in a pinch.

Recommended Cooking Tools

You will need a large pot for boiling pasta. A large skillet is perfect for cooking shrimp. Use a cutting board and knife to chop parsley and garlic. A zester helps to get lemon zest without the bitter pith. Finally, a pasta strainer will make draining the pasta easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by filling a large pot with water. Add salt to the water to flavor the pasta. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta in a colander. Remember to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the shrimp.

Sautéing the Shrimp

Now, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Let it melt slowly. Once the butter is melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté these for about 1 minute until you smell a nice garlic aroma. It’s time to add the shrimp. Toss in 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when done.

Combining and Finishing the Dish

Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in the juice and zest of 1 lemon. Add the last 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss everything together until the butter melts. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Mix everything well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of fresh, chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy your savory garlic butter shrimp scampi!

Tips & Tricks

How to Select the Best Shrimp

Choose shrimp that are firm and have a shiny look. Fresh shrimp smell like the sea, not fishy. If you buy frozen shrimp, look for a brand that has no added chemicals. Large shrimp work best for this recipe, as they hold flavor well. You want shrimp that are at least 16 to 20 per pound for a good size.

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

For the best pasta, use a large pot and plenty of water. Salt the water well; it should taste like the sea. Add the pasta once the water boils. Stir it right away to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, which means firm but not hard. Reserve some pasta water before draining, as it helps sauce blend.

Flavors Enhancements

To boost flavor, add herbs like basil or oregano. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch at the end. You can also try different spices, such as smoked paprika. For a zesty kick, add lemon zest and juice, which brighten the dish. Adjust red pepper flakes for spice, making it as mild or hot as you like. Don’t forget, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan gives it a rich finish!

Variations

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

You can enjoy garlic butter shrimp scampi with pasta like linguine or spaghetti. The pasta adds a nice texture and helps soak up the tasty sauce. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, then mix it with the shrimp. This classic pairing makes for a filling meal that is hard to resist.

Low-Carb Alternatives (e.g., zucchini noodles)

If you want a lighter option, try using zucchini noodles. They are low in carbs and add a fresh taste. To make zucchini noodles, spiralize fresh zucchini. Sauté them for a few minutes until tender. Then, mix them with the shrimp and sauce. You’ll enjoy a healthy, delicious meal without feeling heavy.

Adding Vegetables (e.g., spinach, bell peppers)

Adding vegetables makes this dish even better. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Bell peppers bring a sweet crunch. You can toss in a handful of spinach just before serving. For bell peppers, sauté them with the garlic. This way, you get more flavors and make your dish vibrant and colorful.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

I love to save extra Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi for later. To store leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to enjoy the scampi again, reheat it gently. You can use a skillet or the microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to help it heat evenly. Stir often to avoid burning. If using a microwave, cover the dish and heat in short bursts until warm.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Make sure they are peeled and deveined before cooking. Frozen shrimp work well and save time. They can taste just as great as fresh shrimp.

What can I substitute for butter?

If you want a butter substitute, use olive oil or ghee. Both add rich flavor. You can also try vegan butter. Each option gives a nice taste to the dish. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.

How do I make it spicy?

To add heat, use more red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Mix in these spicy ingredients while cooking the shrimp. This way, you control the heat level.

In this blog, we explored how to create a delicious shrimp pasta dish. We discussed essential ingredients, cooking tools, and gave you step-by-step instructions. You now know tips for choosing shrimp and making perfect pasta. We even covered fun variations to try and how to store leftovers.

Cooking shrimp pasta can be simple and fun. With practice, you will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making this dish your ow