Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or fuss? Then look no further! This Shrimp and Scallop Scampi recipe is your answer. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant homemade cooking creation. This healthy meal is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- 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
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Linguine or spaghetti (about 1 pound)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; this will make the dish bitter.
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is pink and the scallops are opaque and lightly browned.
Step 4: Create the Scampi Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the seafood and sauce. Add a little pasta water if needed to create a light, creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired. This delicious dish is perfect on its own, but a side salad would be a lovely addition.
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Scallop Scampi:
- Don't overcook the seafood! Overcooked shrimp and scallops will be rubbery. Cook them just until they're opaque and cooked through.
- Use good quality ingredients. The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the quality of the shrimp, scallops, and other ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
- Add some vegetables. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Spicy Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Lemon Garlic Scampi: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a more intense lemon garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on pasta and seafood quantity)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This shrimp and scallop scampi recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish! It’s one of those easy recipes that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the amazing flavors of this homemade cooking masterpiece!