Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Delicious and Simple Recipe

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is your answer! This dish combines fresh shrimp, bright lemon, and garlic for an explosion of flavor. In just a few easy steps, you can impress your family or guests with this delicious recipe. Not only is it simple to make, but it also requires minimal ingredients. Let's dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti

Flavor Enhancers

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 4 tablespoons olive oil

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Additional Ingredients

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Fresh shrimp makes this dish shine. You want large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best taste. The pasta you choose, either linguine or spaghetti, gives shape and texture to the meal.

For flavor, I use unsalted butter and olive oil. Butter adds richness, while olive oil gives a light touch. Garlic is key. I chop it finely to release its strong aroma. The zest and juice of a lemon brighten the dish and balance the flavors.

Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount to fit your taste. Halved cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color. Fresh parsley adds a pop of green and freshness.

Don’t forget the optional Parmesan cheese! It adds a creamy finish when you sprinkle it on top. This blend of ingredients turns simple shrimp and pasta into a gourmet dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save half a cup of the pasta water for later.

Sautéing the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the mixture is hot, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the garlic. Then, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Flavors

Next, stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these ingredients for another 2 minutes. This time lets the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Now it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to mix the pasta with the shrimp and sauce. If it looks dry, pour in some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Final Presentation

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This makes the dish rich and creamy. Toss in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. Now, you can plate your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Garnish with extra parsley and some grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your beautiful meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Perfect Shrimp

To cook shrimp just right, look for a few signs. The color should change from gray to pink. They should curl into a C shape. If they look firm and opaque, they are done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so watch the time closely.

Flavor Customizations

You can adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, use less or skip them. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, too. Try adding basil or thyme for a different twist. Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to your scampi.

Pairing Ideas

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi pairs well with many sides. Serve it with a green salad for freshness. Garlic bread is also a great option for dipping. If you love veggies, consider serving steamed broccoli or asparagus. These sides balance the flavors and make for a complete meal. Enjoy your meal with a glass of white wine for a special touch.

Variations

Making It Healthier

To make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi lighter, you can swap some ingredients. Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. It adds fiber and nutrients. You can also cut back on butter. Try using just two tablespoons instead of four. This change helps reduce calories while keeping great taste. You can also add a bit more lemon juice for flavor without the fat. These small swaps keep the dish healthy and still delicious.

Adding Veggies

Adding veggies to your scampi makes it colorful and nutritious. Consider tossing in some spinach or kale. They wilt nicely and add vitamins. You can also add bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them small and sauté them with the garlic. Cherry tomatoes already add some color, but more veggies can make the dish pop. You can even mix in broccoli florets for a crunchy bite. The more veggies, the better!

Seafood Alternatives

If you want to change the seafood, you have options. You can use scallops instead of shrimp. They cook quickly and taste great with lemon and garlic. Another choice is to use lobster. It adds a rich flavor that feels fancy. If you like fish, try using white fish like cod or tilapia. Just cut them into pieces and cook them until flaky. Each swap gives a new twist to the classic dish!

Storage Info

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and tasty. The scampi lasts in the fridge for up to three days. Before serving, check for any signs of spoilage. If it looks or smells off, it's best to toss it.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, place it in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to cool it first. You can freeze the dish for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy your meal as if it was just made!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. Drain and pat them dry before cooking. This helps keep the texture good. Fresh shrimp taste great, but frozen shrimp can be handy and still delicious.

How to avoid overcooking the shrimp?

To avoid overcooking shrimp, watch the color. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off the heat as soon as they are done. Shrimp cook quickly, so don't walk away from the pan. If in doubt, take one out and cut it. It should be firm and not rubbery.

What's the best pasta to use for Shrimp Scampi?

Linguine or spaghetti works best for shrimp scampi. Both types hold the sauce well. They also complement the shrimp nicely. If you prefer a different type, you could try fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta. The key is to choose a pasta that you enjoy.

This blog post covered the recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. You learned about the main ingredients, flavor enhancers, and step-by-step instructions. We also explored tips for perfect cooking, storage methods, and possible variations.

This dish is easy to make and full of flavor. You can customize it and even make it healthier if you want. Enjoy trying out this recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists!