Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Discover the irresistible charm of shrimp scampi pasta, where tender shrimp meet al dente pasta in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and lemon. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, offering a taste of the coast right in your kitchen. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that makes this recipe a favorite among seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 500 calories, 20g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 30g of protein. This is based on standard ingredients and can vary with substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, simmering for another 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the shrimp, tossing to combine.
- Stir in the remaining butter and chopped parsley, mixing well. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein. For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, replace white wine with vegetable broth or additional lemon juice.
Serving and Pairings
This shrimp scampi pasta pairs excellently with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. It also complements steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the shrimp.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp makes them rubbery.
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
- Using low-quality wine affects the sauce flavor.
- Skipping fresh herbs reduces the dish’s freshness.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the garlic level based on your preference.
- Let the wine simmer to enhance its flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make shrimp scampi pasta ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with cooked pasta just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth mixed with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers when cooking the garlic.
Is shrimp scampi pasta healthy?
While it contains butter and pasta, using whole grain pasta and reducing the butter can make it a healthier option. Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi pasta is a delightful dish that captivates with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Perfect for any occasion, it brings a taste of the sea to your table, making it a must-try recipe for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, simmering for another 2 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the shrimp, tossing to combine.
- Stir in the remaining butter and chopped parsley, mixing well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
