Shrimp Scampi: An Easy, Classic Dinner Dish For a Family Meal

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your family dinner table with Shrimp Scampi, a classic dish that marries succulent shrimp with a delectable garlic and lemon-infused butter sauce. In this guide, we’ll lead you through the simple steps to create this beloved seafood delight, making it an easy and delightful choice for a memorable family meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound linguine or your favorite pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  5. Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat evenly.
  7. Toss with Cooked Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If needed, use the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
  8. Season and Garnish: Season the Shrimp Scampi with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
  9. Serve and Sprinkle with Parmesan: Plate the Shrimp Scampi and serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
  10. Enjoy the Coastal Flavors: Gather your family around the table and enjoy the coastal flavors of Shrimp Scampi. This easy-to-make classic dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and shared moments.

Shrimp Scampi is a culinary journey to the shores of the Mediterranean, offering the perfect blend of succulent shrimp and a zesty garlic-lemon sauce. With its effortless preparation and irresistible taste, this classic dinner dish is sure to become a family favorite, inviting everyone to savor the essence of coastal dining at home. Buon appetito!

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