Penulis Shrimp Scampi is a popular seafood dish that features shrimp cooked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with white wine, lemon juice, and sometimes a touch of red pepper flakes for heat. The dish is often served over pasta, such as linguine or angel hair, but it can also be enjoyed on its own or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Shrimp Scampi is known for its quick preparation and light yet luxurious taste, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The combination of tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and the bright acidity of lemon creates a deliciously balanced dish that's simple yet elegant. Shrimp Scampi is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Some variations might include adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for a burst of color and additional flavor. The sauce, while traditionally made with white wine, can also be made with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. The key to a perfect Shrimp Scampi is not overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
They should be cooked just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes only a few minutes. The sauce is typically made in the same pan after cooking the shrimp, allowing the flavors from the shrimp to enhance the sauce. Shrimp Scampi is often garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness. It's a dish that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for a quick yet impressive meal. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside a simple green salad, Shrimp Scampi is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings a taste of the sea to your table.
Here's a straightforward recipe for making Shrimp Scampi with Pasta:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes.
4. Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, with extra lemon wedges on the side if you like.
Enjoy your delicious and simple Shrimp Scampi with Pasta!
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