Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is a light yet flavorful seafood classic.It features shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and lemon.Quick to prepare and elegant to serve.A staple of Italian-American cooking.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour wine or broth into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in remaining butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Return shrimp to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Shrimp cook very quickly—avoid overcooking.
- Fresh lemon enhances the flavour significantly.
- Pasta water helps emulsify the sauce.
- Use good-quality olive oil and butter.
- Best enjoyed fresh.