Save A quick and vibrant shrimp dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
I enjoy making this dish on busy weeknights because it is fast but feels special enough to serve guests.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, finely minced, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sauce: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth), Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons), Zest of 1 lemon
- Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- To Serve: Cooked pasta, crusty bread, or steamed rice (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- Add the garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, lemon zest, and parsley. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Step 7:
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Save This dish is a family favorite, especially during quick weeknight dinners when everyone wants something tasty without the wait.
Notes
For extra flavor add a splash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes. Substitute fresh basil or chives for parsley if desired. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring spoons and cups, knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 240, Total Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 4 g, Protein 24 g per serving
Save This shrimp scampi is the perfect balance of speed and elegance for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of shrimp works best?
Large peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal to ensure quick, even cooking and tender texture.
- → Can I substitute the white wine used in the sauce?
Yes, dry white wine can be replaced with chicken broth or vegetable broth to maintain moisture and depth without alcohol.
- → How should the garlic be prepared?
Finely mince the garlic to release aroma and flavor quickly during sautéing without burning.
- → What are good side dishes to serve alongside?
Cooked pasta, crusty bread, or steamed rice complement the saucy shrimp perfectly.
- → How to add spice to this dish?
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during cooking for a subtle or bold heat.