Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with succulent shrimp for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for dinner parties or a weeknight treat, this recipe offers a gourmet touch without the fuss.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium shallot, diced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a restaurant-quality dish in their own kitchen. With its simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, diced shallot, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Fresh Ingredients
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the dish immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Quick Preparation
This dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great quick meal option.
Flavorful Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is rich and flavorful, enhancing the taste of the shrimp.
Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat to create a rich base for the dish. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even melting.
Sautéing Aromatics
Add minced garlic, diced shallot, and crushed red pepper flakes to the melted butter. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes, to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Cooking Shrimp
Introduce peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 3-4 minutes, ensuring they’re seasoned with salt and pepper for additional flavor.
Finishing Touches
Incorporate chopped parsley, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest into the dish, stirring to blend the flavors just before serving for a fresh and vibrant finish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Can I substitute the butter?
While unsalted butter is recommended for flavor control, you can substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should have a firm texture, indicating they are done.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and combine them just before serving to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings together succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a rich butter sauce in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The fresh parsley and zesty lemon elevate the flavors, making this recipe a must-try for seafood lovers.
Garlic Butter Pasta
Toss your garlic butter shrimp scampi in with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. Spaghetti or linguine pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
Shrimp Tacos
Use the garlic butter shrimp to fill soft corn tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
Garlic Butter Grilled Vegetables
Alongside your shrimp scampi, grill seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini, brushed with the same garlic butter sauce.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Risotto
Incorporate the shrimp into a creamy risotto, infusing it with the flavors of garlic and lemon for a comforting dish.
Garlic Butter Baked Potatoes
Serve your garlic butter shrimp on baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives for a filling and satisfying meal.
