Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This slow cooker shrimp scampi recipe is your answer. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish. This healthy and delicious recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Lightly grease your slow cooker. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cooking the Shrimp Scampi:
- In the slow cooker, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Add the shrimp to the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Season generously with salt and pepper. If using, add the red pepper flakes now.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp tough.
Finishing Touches:
- Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the butter pieces until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a vibrant freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the scampi.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes to your preference.
Serving:
- Serve the shrimp scampi immediately over your cooked linguine or spaghetti. A sprinkle of extra parsley adds a beautiful garnish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the shrimp to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the freshness of the shrimp, garlic, and parsley.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and your slow cooker. Check for doneness frequently to prevent overcooking.
- Wine substitution: If you don't consume alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with chicken broth or more lemon juice.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra minced garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Lemon-Herb Shrimp Scampi: Incorporate other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for a more complex flavor profile.
- 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: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious slow cooker shrimp scampi recipe offers a simple and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a homemade cooking triumph that delivers on flavor and ease, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Enjoy!