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Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.4 from 5 reviews

This Shrimp Scampi recipe features succulent large shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter and olive oil sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes, finished with fresh parsley and a touch of vegetable broth for a light, flavorful dish perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Sauce

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Cooked pasta (amount as desired)
  • Reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Shrimp: Thaw the shrimp if frozen, rinse under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Spices: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with additional salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  6. Toss with Pasta: Add your favorite cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the shrimp and sauce.
  7. Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili.
  • Use fresh shrimp when possible for the best texture and flavor.
  • Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth or white wine for extra depth of flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to help emulsify and thin the sauce as needed.
  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.