Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian dish that combines succulent shrimp with a garlicky white wine sauce. The dish is simple to make, yet packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. In this article, we’ll take a look at the ingredients and steps you’ll need to make a delicious Shrimp Scampi.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Linguine or spaghetti for serving
Instructions:
- Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. This will come in handy later if you need to thin out the sauce.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. This is an important step, as the garlic is what gives the Shrimp Scampi its distinct flavor.
- Add the white wine, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it reduce for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened. This will help to intensify the flavor of the sauce.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. It’s important to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and chewy.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and remove the skillet from heat. The parsley will add a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
- Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked linguine or spaghetti. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, Shrimp Scampi is a dish that anyone can make. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlicky white wine sauce, and fresh parsley make this dish a crowd-pleaser. Serve with a crusty baguette and a crisp white wine for a complete and delicious meal.