Easy Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances savory flavors and satisfying textures? Garlic shrimp scampi with pasta is that dish! This recipe brings together succulent shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce tossed with al dente pasta. The combination creates an irresistible meal that tantalizes your taste buds and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Imagine sitting down to a plate of steaming spaghetti enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce topped with perfectly cooked shrimp glistening under fresh herbs. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also ideal for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your family or guests with this gourmet experience. Get ready to savor every bite of this elegant yet simple Italian classic!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This garlic shrimp scampi with pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Flavor-Packed Dish: The rich garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp while the herbs add freshness, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Whether served as a romantic dinner or a family gathering meal, this dish appeals to all palates and can be easily paired with salads or crusty bread.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti or Linguine: About 8 ounces of your choice of pasta will serve two generously; feel free to adjust based on your portion needs.
• Large Shrimp: Use about one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp—fresh or frozen works well; just ensure they are properly thawed if using frozen.
• Fresh Garlic: You’ll need around four cloves finely minced; fresh garlic adds an aromatic depth that’s crucial for flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Use about four tablespoons; unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level better in the dish.
• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons will help achieve that perfect sauté without burning the butter.

For the Sauce:

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice from one lemon brightens up the flavors beautifully; avoid bottled varieties for the best taste.
• Parsley: Roughly chopped fresh parsley is essential for garnish; it adds color and freshness to the final dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and two tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked through, pour in lemon juice and stir well. Add another two tablespoons of butter and mix until melted. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained pasta into the skillet containing the sauce and shrimp. Cook together on low heat for an additional minute so that everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer your garlic shrimp scampi with pasta onto plates or into bowls. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Sit back and relish every bite of this flavorful creation that can easily become one of your favorite go-to meals!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients significantly enhance flavor—opt for fresh herbs and seafood whenever possible.
• Control Heat Carefully: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning garlic; burnt garlic can impart bitterness to your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using Pre-cooked Shrimp: One common mistake when making Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is opting for pre-cooked shrimp. While it may save time, pre-cooked shrimp often lacks the fresh taste and texture that raw shrimp provides. Fresh shrimp absorbs flavors better during cooking, ensuring a delicious dish. Always choose raw shrimp for this recipe to achieve that tender, succulent bite that elevates your scampi.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Another critical error is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Overcooking results in rubbery and unappetizing shrimp. To avoid this mistake, watch the color change closely; shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat as soon as they reach this stage to preserve their delicate texture and flavor in your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs and stale ingredients can diminish the flavor of your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta. Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon zest are crucial for bringing out the best flavors. Dried herbs lack vibrancy and can make your dish taste flat. Invest in fresh ingredients to enhance the overall taste and aroma of your scampi for a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

– 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti

– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

– 4 tablespoons of olive oil

– 6 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

– Juice of one lemon

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Preparation Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta:

Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the shrimp are cooked, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together until well combined. Finally, remove from heat and mix in the fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• • A crisp green salad: A light salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the dish.

• • Garlic bread: Serve some buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping into any extra sauce.

• A glass of white wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers from your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short intervals until heated through. Adding a splash of olive oil or a bit more butter can help revive its creamy texture.

FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta?

When preparing Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, linguine or spaghetti are excellent choices due to their ability to hold onto sauce well. However, you can also use fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if preferred. Choose your favorite type based on dietary needs or personal preference for texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp when making Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta. Just ensure you thaw them completely before cooking. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes or leave them overnight in the refrigerator for best results. This way, they will cook evenly and maintain their juicy texture.

Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

For those looking for a vegetarian version of Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, consider substituting shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini strips as a great alternative. You can still use all other ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and parsley to keep that classic flavor profile intact.

What should I serve alongside my Garlic Shrimp Scampi?

When serving Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, think about complementary sides that enhance your meal experience. A simple green salad dressed lightly balances the richness of shrimp scampi nicely. Additionally, warm garlic bread provides an excellent vehicle to soak up any leftover sauce.

Conclusion for Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

In summary, this flavorful Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also offers delightful tastes that everyone will enjoy. By using fresh ingredients like garlic and parsley alongside succulent shrimp over perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or at a special gathering, it’s versatile enough to pair well with salads and crusty bread. Don’t forget to explore variations such as using different types of seafood or vegetables! Enjoy creating this delicious dish that brings together simplicity and elegance on your dining table!