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Succulent shrimp scampi with garlic and lemon sauce served over linguini with fresh parsley garnish
Dinner

Shrimp Scampi

A true classic. Every so often, I sauté some shallots and serve this scampi on top of linguini. But this dish is pretty fantastic on it's own. Perhaps with some garlic bread.

Prep
10 min
Cook
12 min
Total
22 min
Serves
4
Style
💰 Everyday

A true classic.

Every so often, I sauté some shallots and serve this scampi on top of linguini. But this dish is pretty fantastic on its own. Perhaps with some garlic bread.

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 3 TBSP olive oil
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 5 garlic cloves, pressed
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, or more to taste
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1 TBSP lemon juice
  • 3 TBSP cold butter
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 TBSP chopped herbs, such as parsley and chives

Instructions

  1. 1

    Season the shrimp with salt and let it sit in a bowl while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil over high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp and cook for 2.5–3 minutes, turning once, until cooked through. Remove to a plate.

  3. 3

    Add another 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 45 seconds, being careful not to burn them. Add the wine and bring to a boil. Cook for about a minute until slightly reduced. Add the lemon juice. Add the butter, 1 tbsp (15ml) at a time, and stir vigorously to emulsify into a sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir until coated with sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the lemon rind and herbs.

FAQ

Can you make shrimp scampi ahead of time?+
You can prep all your ingredients ahead, but it's best to cook the shrimp just before serving since it only takes about 10 minutes total and overcooking makes it tough. You can make the sauce in advance and reheat it gently, then add the cooked shrimp back in at the last minute.
What can I substitute for white wine in shrimp scampi?+
You can use chicken or vegetable broth, dry vermouth, or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with a little water to keep that acidic brightness. Just avoid sweet wines or anything too heavy, as they'll overpower the delicate shrimp.
Why is my shrimp tough and rubbery?+
Shrimp cooks very quickly—even 30 seconds too long makes it chewy, so watch it closely and pull it off the heat the moment it turns opaque and pink. Don't let it sit around in the hot pan; transfer it to a plate right away while you finish the sauce.
What should I serve shrimp scampi with?+
Serve it over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that garlicky butter sauce, or pile it on a salad for a lighter option. A simple green salad on the side and a glass of crisp white wine make it a complete, restaurant-quality dinner.

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