Ultimate Classic Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is a classic dish that has won hearts across the globe with its irresistible combination of flavors and simplicity. This dish, which showcases succulent shrimp enveloped in a rich, garlicky sauce, is a staple in many households. Its roots trace back to Italian culinary traditions, but it has evolved into a beloved favorite in Italian-American cuisine. The allure of shrimp scampi lies not only in its taste but also in the fresh ingredients that elevate this dish to culinary delight.

Discover the irresistible charm of shrimp scampi with this ultimate classic recipe that combines fresh shrimp in a rich, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's simple yet elegant. Learn to create a harmonious blend of flavors using fresh ingredients like lemon, garlic, and white wine. Serve it over linguine or with crusty bread for a delightful meal! Try it tonight! #ShrimpScampi #SeafoodLovers #ItalianCuisine #DinnerInspiration #EasyRecipes #FoodieFavorites #CookingAtHome

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Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

8 ounces linguine or spaghetti

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).

Add Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Create the Sauce: Pour the white wine into the same skillet, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Add the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together gently.

Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4