Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with this mouthwatering Shrimp Scampi Pasta! Perfectly cooked linguine or spaghetti, succulent shrimp, and a rich garlic-infused sauce come together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this meal is sure to impress. With a burst of flavor from the lemon and a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes, each bite is a celebration of taste that makes this dish irresistible.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Let the buttery aroma fill your kitchen!
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. This step is key to infusing the oil with flavor.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and gently add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque. This should be quick, so keep an eye on them!
- Pour in the dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly to enhance the flavors.
- Season your sauce with salt and black pepper to your liking, then toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta in the luscious sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley, remove the skillet from heat, and prepare for serving.
- Plate the pasta, generously topping each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of zest from the lemon before serving. If you love a little more heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days; just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or extra olive oil to revive its sumptuous texture.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights basic techniques such as sautéing and deglazing, which are perfect for enhancing flavors in simple dishes. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, while deglazing with wine adds depth to the sauce, creating a luxurious finish to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking for the best texture.
What other herbs can I use? Basil or oregano can make delightful substitutes for parsley, depending on your taste preferences.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out linguine or spaghetti for your favorite pasta shape, such as fettuccine or penne.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Shrimp Scampi Pasta is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a real showstopper. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to make it a new favorite in your repertoire. So gather your ingredients, savor the aromas filling your kitchen, and enjoy this delightful dish that brings a taste of the coast right to your dinner table. Happy cooking!