Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Once fragrant, add the white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it reduces slightly.
4. Combine the Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the pasta. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta in the sauce. Stir in the lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well combined, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on the side, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich, tangy sauce that’s simply irresistible. The shrimp absorb all of those wonderful flavors, making every bite a treat.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. Add more lemon for extra brightness, toss in some veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes, or make it spicier with extra red pepper flakes.
• Elegant and Impressive: Despite being incredibly simple to make, this dish looks and tastes like something you’d order at a fine dining restaurant. It’s the perfect recipe to impress your guests at a dinner party or special occasion.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh shrimp rather than frozen for the best flavor. If you do use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to remove them from the pan as soon as they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you like a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end to make it more indulgent. For a lighter version, stick with just the butter, wine, and lemon.
• Add Veggies: For extra color and nutrition, add sautéed spinach, asparagus, or peas to the dish. You can also swap the pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

Final Thoughts:

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is the perfect balance of rich, buttery goodness and bright, fresh flavors. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the pasta is coated in a deliciously garlicky sauce, and the whole dish comes together in no time at all. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Pair it with a light salad and a glass of white wine, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!