Craving that Red Lobster experience but don't want to leave the house? This copycat shrimp scampi recipe brings the restaurant's famous dish right to your kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this healthy and delicious dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a taste of the coast without breaking the bank!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked pasta (linguine or spaghetti recommended) for serving
Instructions:
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when cooking. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter.
- Sauté 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 to ensure even cooking.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits – this adds depth of flavor! Let the liquid simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the Flavors: Add the red pepper flakes (if using), parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp scampi and serve immediately. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi:
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will always yield the best results. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, garlic, or lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- Add Some Vegetables: For a heartier meal, add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the scampi.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Garlic Shrimp Scampi: For a more garlicky flavor, add an extra 2-3 cloves of minced garlic.
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy shrimp scampi recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a delicious dish that's both satisfying and relatively healthy, perfect for those looking for best recipes without sacrificing flavor or ease of preparation. Enjoy!