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Shrimp Scampi
Easy 10 min prep 15 min cook 4 servings

Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi preparation

Introduction

What to expect

Plump shrimp sauteed in garlic butter and white wine, finished with lemon and parsley.

The story

Behind the recipe

Scampi is a crustacean-based seafood dish that originally featured langoustine sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and white wine. The term "scampi" is the Italian name for langoustine. In the United States, where langoustines are uncommon, the dish is prepared with shrimp and is usually called "shrimp scampi," treating the term as a style of preparation. In Britain, scampi refers to langoustine tail meat, often breaded and fried as pub food. The Italian-American version pairs garlic butter, white wine, and Parmesan with shrimp over pasta or bread.

Method

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente.

  2. 2

    Peel and devein the shrimp, patting them dry with paper towels.

  3. 3

    Melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  4. 4

    Saute garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant but not browned.

  5. 5

    Add shrimp and cook until pink on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.

  6. 6

    Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmering for 2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the scampi sauce.

  8. 8

    Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Adaptations

Variations & suggestions

Swap the spaghetti for linguine or angel hair, or skip the pasta and spoon the shrimp and sauce over crusty bread.

For a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes; for more heat, add an extra pinch or two.

Stir in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or a cup of halved cherry tomatoes during the final 2 minutes of simmering.

Make it dairy-free by replacing the butter with an equal amount of olive oil.

Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.