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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Drying the shrimp is essential for ensuring they cook evenly and don’t release excess water while sautéing.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned (since burnt garlic can turn bitter). Next, add the white wine (or chicken broth) to the skillet and stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits that have formed on the bottom of the skillet.
4. Add Lemon and Seasonings
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully coated and heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the shrimp scampi with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for added citrus flavor. For a complete meal, serve over pasta or with a side of garlic bread for dipping into that flavorful garlic butter sauce.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, try to use fresh shrimp rather than frozen. If you do use frozen shrimp, ensure that they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Be sure to watch them closely and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
- Add Pasta: For a more filling dish, toss the shrimp and garlic butter sauce with your favorite cooked pasta. Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work beautifully with this dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier scampi, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end of cooking to make the sauce creamy and luxurious.
Variations
- Shrimp Scampi with Veggies: For added nutrition, you can throw in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus towards the end of cooking for a pop of color and flavor.
- Cajun Shrimp Scampi: Add some Cajun seasoning or paprika to the sauce for a smoky, spicy twist on the classic recipe.
- Garlic Butter Lobster: If you want to elevate this dish further, replace the shrimp with lobster tails or a combination of both shrimp and lobster for a seafood feast.
Why This Recipe Works
The simplicity of Classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is what makes it so irresistible. The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the white wine adds a touch of sophistication. It’s a perfect balance of richness and freshness, and it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
Conclusion
Classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a delicious seafood meal. Whether you serve it with pasta, over rice, or with some freshly baked garlic bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and indulge in this creamy, garlicky shrimp delight that’s bound to transport your taste buds to a seaside paradise!
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