Shrimp scampi pasta

Here’s a classic recipe for Shrimp Scampi Pasta, combining juicy shrimp, garlic, lemon, and a rich buttery sauce over your favorite pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Ingredients:

• 300g (10 oz) linguine or spaghetti pasta (or your preferred pasta)
• 450g (1 lb) large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

   • While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
   • Add the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
   • Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

   • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta.

5. Serve:

   • Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped parsley.
   • Serve with extra lemon wedges and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy the shrimp scampi pasta on its own, or pair it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your flavorful and vibrant Shrimp Scampi Pasta! It’s a simple, yet elegant dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers!