Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is super easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even when you’re having friends over and want to impress them without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender shrimp, garlic, and buttery lemon sauce tossed with pasta is just delicious. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just need a go-to recipe that’s simple and tasty, shrimp scampi is a must-try!
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 30mins |
History of Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi has its roots in Italian cuisine, where the term “scampi” originally referred to small lobster-like crustaceans called langoustines. In Italy, these were traditionally prepared in a simple sauce of olive oil, garlic, and white wine. When Italian immigrants brought the dish to the U.S., shrimp replaced langoustines since they were more widely available. Over time, the recipe evolved into the buttery, garlicky shrimp dish we know today.
Why Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi is a favorite because it’s flavorful and comes together quickly. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a savory and zesty sauce that pairs perfectly with shrimp. It’s light yet satisfying, and since it’s so quick to make, it’s ideal for busy nights or when you need something impressive without too much effort.
What is Shrimp Scampi Made of?
Shrimp Scampi is made from a handful of fresh ingredients:
- Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal.
- Garlic: Lots of fresh garlic for that rich, aromatic flavor.
- Butter and olive oil: For a creamy and rich sauce.
- Lemon juice and zest: Adds brightness and a bit of tang.
- White wine: Gives a light depth to the sauce.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley for garnish.
- Red pepper flakes: For a little heat (optional).
- Pasta: Traditionally served with spaghetti or linguine, you can use any pasta you like.
What to Have with Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi is traditionally served over pasta, but it can also be paired with:
- Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all that garlic butter sauce.
- Steamed vegetables: Like broccoli or asparagus for a light side.
- Rice: A simple alternative to pasta.
- Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the dish.
Is Shrimp Scampi Healthy?
Shrimp Scampi can be a relatively healthy dish, especially if you go light on the butter and oil. Shrimp is low in calories and protein, making it a good option for a balanced meal. However, the butter and pasta can add extra calories, so if you’re looking to keep it lighter, you can use whole wheat pasta or serve it with vegetables instead.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large skillet: To cook the shrimp and sauce.
- Pasta pot: If serving over pasta.
- Tongs: For turning the shrimp and tossing the pasta.
- Garlic press or mincer: For the garlic.
- Microplane: For zesting the lemon.
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 225g (8 oz) spaghetti or linguine (optional, if serving with pasta)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta: If you’re serving the shrimp scampi with pasta, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- Combine and serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If serving with pasta, add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, tossing everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Wine substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works well as a substitute.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta or serve with rice or vegetables instead.
Conclusion
This easy shrimp scampi recipe is perfect for those nights when you want a quick and flavorful dinner without a lot of fuss. With a garlicky, buttery sauce and tender shrimp, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with pasta, bread, or vegetables, making it adaptable for any meal. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see how simple yet delicious shrimp scampi can be!
MORE RECIPES
Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Tongs
- Garlic press or mincer
- Microplane
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 225g (8 oz) spaghetti or linguine (optional, if serving with pasta)
Instructions
- If you’re serving the shrimp scampi with pasta, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If serving with pasta, add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, tossing everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.