Shrimp Scampi – This dish consist of tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine, this Italian-American classic is the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.
What Is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a dish rooted in Italian cuisine but adapted over the years into an American favorite. Traditionally, “scampi” refers to a type of crustacean similar to langoustines, but in the U.S., shrimp has taken center stage. The dish typically includes:
Pasta or Bread: To soak up the luscious sauce.
Shrimp: Fresh, juicy shrimp are the star.
Garlic and Butter: The flavor foundation.
Lemon and White Wine: For brightness and acidity.
Parsley: A fresh herbal touch.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp Scampi
1. Choose the Right Shrimp
- Opt for large or jumbo shrimp (16–20 count per pound) for the best texture and flavor.
- Devein and peel your shrimp before cooking; leaving the tails on can make for a prettier presentation, but it’s optional.
2. High-Quality Ingredients Are Key
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh garlic and lemon juice elevate the flavor.
- A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for the sauce.
3. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, usually in 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
4. Balance the Sauce
To avoid a greasy sauce, use a combination of butter and olive oil. The olive oil lightens the dish and adds depth.
Recipe Variations
- Toss your cooked scampi with your favorite pasta like linguine, angel hair, or fettuccine for a complete meal.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for a kick.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, umami flavor.
- Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or tarragon add a bright, fragrant touch.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Scampi
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Reheating Tips:
- On the Stove: Warm gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- In the Microwave: Use 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:
Paired with a Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Over Pasta: A classic option that pairs well with the buttery sauce.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions with toothpicks for dipping into the sauce.
Over Rice or Polenta: A heartier base for a satisfying meal.
Shrimp Scampi (Best Creamy)
Shrimp Scampi - This dish consist of tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine, this Italian-American classic is the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.
Ingredients
- 1 pound med-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, crushed
- ½ cup freshly chopped parsley
- ½ cup dry white wine (or broth)
- Kosher salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter, once melted. Add in minced garlic and pepper flakes. Stir cook for a minute.
- Add shrimp and stir cook for about 2-3 minutes or until no longer translucent. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Add the white wine or chicken broth to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan and combine until well coated with the sauce.
- Season with salt pepper and sprinkle with the freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy hot.
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Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 164Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 33mgSodium 184mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 1g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Recipe FAQs
Is this healthy?
Shrimp is a good source of lean protein and low in calories. However, the butter and oil in the sauce can increase the fat content. To make a lighter version, you can use low-fat butter or olive oil, and skip the cream often added in variations.
What kind of shrimp is best for scampi?
Large or jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined) work best. Look for fresh, firm shrimp with translucent flesh.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth is a good alternative.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
This was so good. I don’t have to go to Red Lobster anymore.