Why Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a Great Idea
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many. It is a perfect meal to whip up for a quick and easy dinner, as it requires only a few ingredients and can be ready in less than 30 minutes. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and lemon create a deliciously flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Shrimp Scampi Pasta for 4 people:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
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In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
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Add white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Cook until the liquid has reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add cooked spaghetti, shrimp, parsley, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
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Serve hot with a wedge of lemon on top.
Variations
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Vegetarian Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Substitute the shrimp with sliced mushrooms and add them to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown, then follow the recipe as written.
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Gluten-Free Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
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Spicy Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet when cooking the garlic and red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and lemon create a deliciously flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Try out this recipe and let us know what you think!
FAQ
What type of pasta should I use for Shrimp Scampi Pasta?
You can use any type of pasta that you prefer, but we recommend using thin and long pasta such as linguine, spaghetti or angel hair.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp but make sure to thaw them first. You can thaw the shrimp by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running cold water over them for a few minutes.
How do I know if the shrimp is cooked?
The shrimp should turn pink and slightly opaque when cooked. Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery, so make sure to not overcook them.
Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil. However, using butter will give the dish a richer and creamier flavor.
Can I use lemon juice instead of white wine?
Yes, you can use lemon juice instead of white wine. However, white wine adds a unique flavor to the dish that cannot be replicated by lemon juice alone.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as asparagus, spinach or cherry tomatoes to the dish. Make sure to cook them separately and add them to the dish at the end to prevent them from becoming overcooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is not recommended to make this dish ahead of time as the pasta can become soggy and the shrimp can become overcooked. It is best to serve the dish immediately after cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you want to make more servings. However, make sure to use a larger pan to accommodate the additional ingredients.
Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can use other seafood such as scallops or clams instead of shrimp. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the type of seafood used.
How should I store the leftovers?
If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the leftovers in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.
