Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon. Perfect for an elegant yet easy dinner, this recipe delivers tender shrimp coated in a zesty, buttery sauce garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 count)
Cooking Fats
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as substitute)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly, then lightly season both sides with salt to enhance their flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter to melt and combine.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer to get an even sear. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them immediately to a plate to avoid overcooking.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown which would cause bitterness.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, dry white wine, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp and any juices that collected on the plate to the skillet. Toss gently for about 1 minute so the shrimp are fully coated in the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish, and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Drying the shrimp thoroughly before cooking will help achieve a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- If you prefer non-alcoholic options, substitute dry white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with cooked pasta, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest and freshest flavor impact.
