This dish is like a hug in a bowl—a warm embrace of buttery goodness mingling with tender shrimp and perfectly al dente pasta. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen; buttery garlic dancing like it’s at a party. That’s the magic of shrimp scampi pasta calling you closer!
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to family dinners where laughter fills the air and plates are scraped clean. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that turns any meal into a celebration. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make shrimp scampi pasta bursts with flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for special occasions.
- Enjoy its versatility as you can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences.
- It’s a quick yet satisfying meal that requires minimal effort.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends—they practically licked their plates clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Medium Shrimp: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp; they should be pink and firm for the best flavor.
- Pasta: Choose spaghetti or linguine for a classic touch; cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor; minced garlic makes everything better.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enhance richness; don’t forget to save some for later!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds brightness; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it!
- Parsley: Fresh parsley brings color and flavor; it’s like confetti on your plate!
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for depth of flavor; it’s liquid gold in your cooking arsenal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients—nothing beats having everything ready before the cooking frenzy begins. Chop garlic finely and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some cooking water for later.
Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute—then toss in the shrimp.
Add Flavor Boosters: Once shrimp turn pink (about 3-4 minutes), pour in lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat all those delicious flavors together.
Toss in Pasta: Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet along with reserved cooking water as needed. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined—this is where magic happens.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over everything, and give one last toss before serving hot! Enjoy every bite of your creation.
Now you’re officially ready to impress with your homemade shrimp scampi pasta!
You Must Know
- This shrimp scampi pasta is a delightful dish that combines juicy shrimp with garlic and buttery goodness.
- The aroma as it cooks will have your taste buds dancing.
- Enjoy this quick yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for the pasta while you sauté the garlic in butter. Once the pasta is nearly done, toss in the shrimp for a quick cook, and then combine everything with fresh herbs.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out linguine for spaghetti or add cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use large shrimp to ensure they don’t overcook while absorbing all that delicious sauce.
- Fresh garlic adds more depth than jarred options, enhancing flavor significantly.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.
My first attempt at making shrimp scampi was met with laughter and compliments from friends who devoured every bite. Their delight made me realize this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp scampi pasta?
Yes, just ensure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for best results and flavor.
What can I serve with shrimp scampi pasta?
A fresh garden salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully, balancing flavors and textures.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking just 3-5 minutes.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a quick and delicious dish featuring succulent shrimp, garlic, and pasta enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce. Perfect for effortless weeknight dinners or special occasions!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients for an efficient cooking process.
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of cooking water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque (approximately 3-4 minutes).
- Pour in lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes; stir well to combine.
- Toss in cooked pasta along with reserved water as needed for desired consistency. Mix thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider including cherry tomatoes or capers.
- Swap linguine for spaghetti or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
