Classic Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- Kosher salt
- 12 ounces linguine
- 1 1/4 pounds large shrimp
peeled and deveined
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic
minced
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
plus wedges for serving
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook as the label directs. Reserve 1 cup cooking water, then drain.
- 2
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until the garlic is just golden, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and just cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp to a plate. Add the wine and lemon juice to the skillet and simmer until slightly reduced, 2 minutes.
- 3
Return the shrimp and any juices from the plate to the skillet along with the linguine, butter and 1/2 cup of the reserved cooking water. Continue to cook, tossing, until the butter is melted and the shrimp is hot, about 2 minutes, adding more of the reserved cooking water as needed. Season with salt; stir in the parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.
Classic Shrimp Scampi
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About this Recipe
Craving an effortlessly elegant dinner that comes together in a flash? This Classic Shrimp Scampi recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your table in just 30 minutes, proving that gourmet taste doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
What sets this scampi apart is its brilliant balance of simple, high-quality ingredients. You'll love how plump, perfectly cooked shrimp are bathed in a bright, zesty lemon-garlic sauce, enriched by dry white wine and finished with luxurious unsalted butter. This masterful combination ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a truly irresistible dish.
Prepare your senses for a truly delightful culinary experience. You'll be greeted by succulent, tender shrimp, infused with the aromatic depth of minced garlic and a subtle, pleasant warmth from red pepper flakes. The luscious sauce, a harmonious blend of tangy lemon, savory wine, and rich butter, beautifully coats every strand of linguine, ensuring a silky, flavorful mouthful. This dish offers a sophisticated taste profile that feels both comforting and remarkably fresh, making it a perfect quick escape to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. You can easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to dial the heat up or down, or even omit them if you prefer a milder flavor profile. While linguine is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other long pasta shapes like fettuccine or spaghetti. For an extra layer of herbal freshness, consider adding a touch of fresh basil along with the parsley, or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese right before serving, though it shines brightly on its own.
This Classic Shrimp Scampi is an excellent choice for a speedy yet impressive weeknight dinner, or a relaxed weekend meal with friends. Serve it immediately, garnished with a generous scattering of fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of bright citrus.