There’s something magical about a plate of shrimp scampi-style pasta. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent and fresh, rich and light. This dish of tender shrimp bathed in a buttery garlic sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a hint of fresh lemon, is a joy for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. What’s even better? It comes together in no time at all, making it ideal for when you want restaurant-quality food without the wait.
Here’s everything you need to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home, along with tips to make it truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz (about 340 g) of linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) of large shrimp, deveined and peeled (leave tails on for extra flair, if you like)
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- ½ cup of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- ½ teaspoon of salt (plus more for boiling the pasta)
- ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- 2–3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Scampi-Style Shrimp Pasta:
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as it may be needed to loosen the sauce later.
2. Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic!).
Next, pour in the white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles. If the mixture seems dry, drizzle in some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and toss to evenly distribute.
5. Serve and Savor
Serve the pasta hot, either in individual bowls or family-style on a large platter. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of parsley, and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of brightness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to maximizing flavor in this dish lies in fresh ingredients, especially the shrimp, lemon, and garlic.
Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can make the dish feel heavy. Keep it al dente for that ideal bite.
Don’t Skip the Wine: The white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t cook with wine, substitute chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar for a similar tangy note.
Adjust the Heat: If you love a little kick, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes. On the flip side, omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
Make it Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Pairing Suggestions
This Scampi-Style Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime to complement the flavors. For sides, consider serving a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A simple, elegant, and delicious recipe that can turn an ordinary evening into something special. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or treating yourself, this Scampi-Style Shrimp Pasta is a dish that never fails to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to savor the joy of cooking as much as the meal itself!
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