Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a delightful and quick dish that combines succulent shrimp with a garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta and finished with fresh herbs and lemon. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Timing

Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add Wine: In the same skillet, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
2. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, mixing until the butter is melted and the sauce is combined.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired sauce consistency is reached.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the shrimp scampi pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy this flavorful dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Shrimp Scampi Pasta (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	45g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a delicious and quick meal that brings together the flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh shrimp in a delightful way. This dish is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!