Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

Shrimp scampi pasta is a delicious seafood dish that combines succulent Shrimp with a savory, garlic-infused sauce. It’s often served with pasta, like spaghetti or linguine, creating a comforting, flavorful meal.

The dish comes from the Italian word “scampi,” which refers to langoustine, a type of small lobster. In modern recipes, it’s often made with Shrimp. The sauce typically includes butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and white wine, creating a rich and tangy flavor profile that perfectly complements the Shrimp.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Quick and Easy: Shrimp scampi pasta is a fast dish that takes just 20-30 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Perfect for Seafood Lovers: If you love seafood, this dish will satisfy your cravings with its fresh, succulent Shrimp and flavorful sauce, which come together effortlessly.

Packed with Protein: Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, making it a nutritious option for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious shrimp scampi pasta:

• Shrimp: Choose fresh or frozen Shrimp, preferably large, peeled, and deveined for easy cooking.
• Spaghetti or Linguine: These pasta varieties work best for Scampi, providing a perfect base to soak up the sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Provides a healthy fat and a lovely depth of flavor when cooking the Shrimp.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and helps balance the richness of the butter, creating a flavorful sauce.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish with a tangy, refreshing touch.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish to your pasta.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the Shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes—Sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine the pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat it with the garlic-butter sauce. Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle the zest over the pasta. Add the Shrimp back to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Garnish and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Variation

While the classic shrimp scampi pasta is a delicious favorite, there are several ways to make it your own. Here are some variations:

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Shrimp Scampi: To enhance the dish and add more texture, add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms.
• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to make the butter and garlic sauce richer and creamier.
• Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): For a healthier option, substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Serving shrimp scampi pasta is simple yet elegant. Here are some tips:

Garnish with fresh parsley: This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note to the rich dish.

Serve with crusty bread: The buttery sauce is perfect for dipping. A slice of toasted baguette or garlic bread complements the meal wonderfully.

Pair with a light white wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay goes perfectly with the dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your shrimp scampi pasta:

Refrigerate: Store the pasta in an airtight container for 2 days.

Reheat: Gently heat the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of olive oil or butter to keep the sauce moist. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook the Shrimp.

Freezing: Shrimp doesn’t freeze well because it tends to become rubbery. It’s best to store only the pasta and sauce in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, reheat and add freshly cooked Shrimp.

FAQs About Shrimp Scampi Pasta