Introduction
Welcome to a delightful and aromatic dish that is sure to impress! Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a classic seafood recipe that combines plump shrimp with a luscious garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. The bright notes of lemon and the hint of spice from red pepper flakes add an irresistible charm to this dish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an elegant gathering with friends. Let’s dive into this culinary treasure!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the linguine or spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain and set aside, making sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later.
- In a roomy skillet, heat the rich unsalted butter and fragrant olive oil together over medium heat, allowing them to meld beautifully.
- Add in the minced garlic and, if you’re in the mood for a kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden brown and the kitchen is filled with a mouthwatering aroma.
- Now, it’s time to introduce the star of the dish—add the shrimp! Cook them until they turn a lovely pink hue, which should take around 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour the dry white wine into the skillet, along with the fresh lemon zest and juice. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the sauce to slightly reduce.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing everything together so the pasta is well-coated in that luscious sauce. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to use that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season your dish with salt and pepper to your liking, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve this scrumptious dish warm, and don’t forget to top each serving with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference!
- If you don’t have white wine, chicken or vegetable broth can be a great substitute.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Garnish with lemon wedges on the side for those who like an additional zing of citrus.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best results with your Shrimp Scampi Pasta, keeping the shrimp juicy and tender is key. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking, and don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender when done. Tossing the pasta through the sauce allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors, so be sure to mix thoroughly!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta?
A simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread would pair wonderfully with this dish.
Conclusion
There you have it—a quick and delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta that dazzles with every bite! With its rich, buttery sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta will surely impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!