Shrimp scampi is a classic seafood dish that is simple to make yet incredibly flavorful. Made with succulent shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and white wine, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Follow this easy recipe to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the white wine to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then return the shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through.
- Stir in the chopped parsley.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
- Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Shrimp
Shrimp are the star of this dish, providing a sweet and succulent flavor. Look for large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined for ease of preparation.
Garlic
Garlic adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish. Be sure to mince it finely so it evenly distributes throughout the sauce.
White Wine
White wine adds a bright and acidic note to the sauce. Use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best flavor.
Lemon
Lemon juice and zest add a fresh and citrusy flavor to the dish. Be sure to use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best results.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to cook the shrimp and garlic. It adds a rich and flavorful base to the sauce.
Parsley
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish. Use it as a garnish to brighten up the plate.
By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and impressive shrimp scampi that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!