Irresistible Shrimp Scampi Pasta: A Flavorful Delight

Shrimp scampi pasta is a dish that marries the ocean’s briny goodness with the comforting embrace of al dente pasta. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp, glistening in a garlic-infused butter sauce, mingling with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon that dances on your taste buds. Just thinking about it makes me want to dive right into the bowl.

I remember the first time I made shrimp scampi pasta for my family. The way their eyes lit up as they took that first bite was priceless. It quickly became our go-to dish for celebrations and cozy weeknights alike, promising a flavor experience that’s simply unforgettable.

Cooking shrimp scampi pasta has always earned rave reviews from my friends, who often beg for me to whip it up again.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta for an authentic Italian feel; both work beautifully.

• Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled shrimp; they add a delightful texture and absorb flavors wonderfully.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are key here; they release an irresistible aroma while cooking.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning; it enriches the sauce beautifully.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds depth and a fruity note; it’s essential in Mediterranean cooking.

• Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the dish while zest adds an aromatic kick.

• Parsley: Use freshly chopped parsley for garnish; its color and flavor elevate the entire dish.

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the delicate flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Pasta

Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt before tossing in your spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to let it burn. Then add your fresh shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Create the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low after removing the shrimp from the skillet. Add butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes into that flavorful garlic oil left behind. Stir until melted and combined, allowing those rich flavors to meld together beautifully.

Combine All Ingredients

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with any juices that collected on your plate. Toss everything together with your drained pasta, ensuring every strand is coated in that luscious sauce. If needed, splash in some reserved pasta water to achieve perfect consistency.

Finish with Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top along with lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately while hot; trust me—you want this dish fresh!

Enjoy Your Creation

Sit down with your loved ones (or just yourself) and dig into this comforting bowl of shrimp scampi pasta. Share stories around the table as you savor each bite of this delightful meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sauté the shrimp first in garlic and butter, then toss with cooked pasta and sauce for a seamless blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Sometimes I whip up shrimp scampi pasta for my friends, and they rave about it! One friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

FAQ

What type of shrimp should I use for shrimp scampi pasta?

Use large, fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor in your dish.

Can I make shrimp scampi pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh to maintain the texture of the shrimp and pasta.

What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?

You can use chicken broth or lemon juice as a non-alcoholic alternative in the sauce.

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Shrimp Scampi Pasta

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Shrimp scampi pasta is a delightful combination of succulent shrimp and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich garlic-butter sauce. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With vibrant flavors from fresh ingredients like lemon and parsley, each bite promises a burst of culinary bliss that will leave everyone asking for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente (9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side). Remove shrimp from skillet.
4. Lower heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet along with any juices. Toss with cooked pasta until well combined. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
6. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider sautéing some spinach or cherry tomatoes with the shrimp. - Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency easily.