Are you craving a delicious, restaurant-quality meal but short on time? Then look no further! This Spicy Shrimp Scampi recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Bobby Flay, is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet bursting with flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates. This easy recipe delivers a healthy meal packed with protein and flavor, making it one of the best recipes for a satisfying and simple dinner. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this vibrant and flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better when cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for a minute or two, until it slightly reduces.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Stir in the butter until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Spicy Shrimp Scampi immediately over your favorite pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness. For a milder dish, use less; for extra heat, add more.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with the addition of vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Different Wine: Feel free to experiment with different types of white wine. A dry Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay would also work well.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for extra brightness and citrus flavor.
- Garlic Butter: For an even richer flavor, increase the butter to 1/4 cup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g (depending on serving size of pasta)
This easy, delicious, and healthy shrimp scampi recipe is a true winner. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a romantic dinner, or even a casual get-together with friends. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a dish that's both satisfying and impressive. Give it a try and experience the Bobby Flay magic in your own kitchen!