Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Shrimp Scampi Pasta. Growing up, seafood was a big deal at my house, and shrimp scampi was a showstopper. The mouthwatering aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the air always signaled something special for dinner. Not to mention, it’s so quick to whip up that it’s become my go-to when friends drop by unexpectedly. They’re always impressed when I pull off a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes—but little do they know, it’s all about this simple, yet divine, recipe.
What I love most about Shrimp Scampi is the balance of flavors. The garlic and lemon brighten everything up, while the butter and shrimp add richness that’s just out of this world. My pasta of choice is usually spaghetti, but linguine works just as well if that’s what you have on hand. Get ready to dive in – let’s make this delicious dish together!
What’s in Shrimp Scampi Pasta?
Large Shrimp: The star of the dish! I prefer using fresh, large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for ease and a delightful bite.
Spaghetti or Linguine: These long pastas are perfect for soaking up the sauce. Depending on what’s in my pantry, I’ll switch between the two, but I usually gravitate towards spaghetti!
Unsalted Butter: This is where the creaminess comes into play. It pairs beautifully with the olive oil, creating a luscious base for the sauce.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil brings flavor and depth. You want something that you could also drizzle on a salad!
Garlic: Please, do not skimp on the garlic! Fresh minced garlic adds that signature punch of flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: This ingredient is optional, but it brings a lovely hint of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Chicken or Seafood Broth: I prefer low-sodium options; it allows me to control the saltiness. This ingredient enhances the sauce’s flavor without overpowering the shrimp.
Lemon: This is essential for that zing! The juice brightens the entire dish while the zest adds a delightful aromatic touch.
Fresh Parsley: Not only does this provide a splash of color, but it also adds freshness and complements the shrimp nicely.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential, these staples help balance and enhance the flavors in the dish.
Lemon Slices: For garnishing – because we eat with our eyes first!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle of cheese takes it to the next level of deliciousness!
Is Shrimp Scampi Pasta Good for You?
Well, let’s break it down! This dish is not only delicious but also has some health benefits.
Large Shrimp: Packed with high-quality protein and low in calories, shrimp is a fantastic source of essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Just be mindful of how many you consume if you’re watching your cholesterol.
Whole Wheat Pasta: If you opt for whole wheat spaghetti or linguine, you can sneak in extra fiber, which is great for your digestion.
Garlic: I like to think of garlic as nature’s very own superfood! It’s known for its potential heart health benefits and immune-boosting properties.
On the flip side, let’s be real – this dish is buttery and delicious, so moderation is key if you’re keeping an eye on your fats or calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon slices for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Serves: 4
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help finish off the dish beautifully.
2. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside (don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water just in case).
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant – about 1 minute. Your kitchen will start to smell divine!
4. Toss in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn pink, which should take around 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook those little gems!
5. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring to combine. Let this simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Remove the skillet from the heat.
7. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta and shrimp, and give it a light toss to distribute the greenery.
8. Transfer the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, just to let everything get hot and cozy.
9. Remove from the oven, and serve it up hot, garnished with lemon slices and grating some fresh Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi Pasta
When serving, you might want to pair your delicious pasta with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread. And hey, a glass of white wine wouldn’t hurt either – you’ve earned it! Also, if you want to switch things up, try tossing in some veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. You’ve got so much flexibility with this recipe!
I can’t wait for you to dive into this wonderful Shrimp Scampi Pasta! It’s sure to become a favorite, and I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures – drop me a line and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
