Are you craving a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe brings you the magic of Emeril Lagasse's kitchen, simplified for everyday cooking. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this Bangin' Shrimp Scampi is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat. It's one of those healthy meals that tastes incredibly decadent without weighing you down. Get ready to be amazed!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta (linguine or spaghetti recommended) for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Sauté the Garlic: Melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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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; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
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Deglaze the Pan: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor. If omitting wine, proceed directly to the next step.
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Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Simmer for another minute to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp scampi and serve immediately. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Bangin' Shrimp Scampi:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh parsley and garlic makes a huge difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch more.
- Wine substitution: Chicken broth is a great substitute for white wine if you prefer an alcohol-free option.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Toss in some chopped cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a go-to choice for quick dinner ideas. The homemade cooking experience offers a delicious alternative to takeout, providing a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delicious and easy shrimp scampi recipe, and remember to always keep it bangin'!