Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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There’s something undeniably comforting about twirling buttery pasta around a fork, especially when it’s coated in a garlicky, lemon-kissed sauce and crowned with succulent shrimp. The Classic Shrimp Scampi is a dish that captures the essence of coastal Italian-American cuisine—bright, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal on a weeknight, this dish delivers elegance without the fuss.

Shrimp scampi has long held its place as a go-to seafood pasta, and for good reason. The balance of flavors—the sharpness of garlic, the zing of fresh lemon juice, the warmth of red pepper flakes, and the richness of butter—all play in perfect harmony. Pair it with a crusty baguette or a chilled glass of white wine, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a vacation on a plate.

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Ingredients for this Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

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Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

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Step 4: Add Lemon and Pasta

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then return the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, with optional grated Parmesan or crusty bread on the side.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Sodium: 620mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish without wine?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with chicken broth or even seafood broth for a similar depth of flavor.

2. What type of shrimp should I use?

Use large, raw shrimp (either fresh or frozen). Make sure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture and ease of eating.

3. Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes give it a mild kick, but you can adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference—or omit them entirely.

4. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking.

5. What’s the best pasta to use?

Linguine or spaghetti work great, but you can also use fettuccine or even angel hair if preferred.

6. How do I prevent the shrimp from being overcooked?

Cook them just until they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape—about 1–2 minutes per side is enough.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed spinach, asparagus tips, or cherry tomatoes make delicious additions to the dish.

8. What wine pairs well with Shrimp Scampi?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the buttery, lemony sauce.

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