Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Introduction

Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi is a beloved dish that captures the essence of coastal dining with its rich flavors and delectable shrimp. This recipe brings the restaurant experience into your home, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp scampi without the hefty bill. With garlic, butter, and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Shrimp – 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Butter – 4 tablespoons
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Red pepper flakes – 1/4 teaspoon
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
White wine – 1/2 cup
Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Pasta – 8 ounces, cooked (optional)

Prep Time

Prep time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes, allowing for quick and easy assembly of ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 10 minutes, making the total time from prep to plate about 20 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a cozy get-together with friends. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish that will leave everyone wanting more.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Ensure they are deveined and shelled.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it is fully melted and starts to bubble.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic to the melted butter, sautéing it for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Introduce the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them well with the garlic butter. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they start to turn pink.

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Step 5: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the shrimp. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 6: Add Lemon Juice

Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, preferably over pasta or with crusty bread.

Notes

Note 1: Shrimp Selection

Choose large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used; if frozen, ensure they are fully thawed.

Note 2: Cooking Time

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough; remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.

Note 3: Adjusting Spice Level

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. For milder flavors, reduce or omit the flakes entirely.

Note 4: Optional Add-ins

Consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that involves cooking shrimp in a hot pan with butter and garlic. This method helps infuse the flavors into the shrimp while keeping them tender.

Deglazing

Deglazing is used to incorporate stuck bits of flavor from the bottom of the pan. After sautéing the shrimp, adding white wine helps lift these flavorful morsels to create a delicious sauce.

Cooking Shrimp

It’s important to cook shrimp just until they’re pink and opaque to avoid overcooking. This technique ensures that the shrimp remain juicy and flavorful.

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Thickening the Sauce

Using a combination of butter and the cooking liquids helps to thicken the sauce while adding richness. This technique provides a velvety finish to the dish.

Serving

Serving the shrimp scampi over pasta or with crusty bread allows you to enjoy the delightful sauce fully. This technique enhances the overall dining experience.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry for the best results.

What type of pasta works best with shrimp scampi?

Linguine or spaghetti are commonly recommended for pairing with shrimp scampi due to their ability to hold the sauce well.

Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and quickly sauté the shrimp just before serving.

What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?

You can use chicken broth or a mixture of lemon juice and water as a substitute for white wine.

How can I make shrimp scampi spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can introduce heat to the dish, adjusting it to your taste preferences.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Conclusion

The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and shrimp. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple yet elegant preparation, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Combine sautéed shrimp with al dente pasta, a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, and fresh herbs for a comforting meal.

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Lemon Butter Garlic Crab Legs

For a delicious seafood feast, serve succulent crab legs drizzled with lemon butter and garlic, reminiscent of the flavors in shrimp scampi.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Sauté shrimp with taco seasoning and serve in warm tortillas topped with crunchy slaw and avocado for a zesty twist.

Creamy Shrimp Risotto

Slowly cooked risotto with shrimp, garlic, and parmesan creates a rich, creamy dish that pairs well with a fresh salad.

Herbed Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Marinate shrimp in a blend of fresh herbs and grill for a light and flavorful appetizer that complements many meals.

Lobster and Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Elevate your mac and cheese by adding lobster and shrimp, mixing it up with a blend of cheeses for a decadent treat.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi