15 Minute Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Are you craving a delicious seafood dish but short on time? Look no further! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering shrimp scampi that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let's dive into the details and get cooking! Table of Contents Sr#Headings1Ingredients2Preparation3Cooking4Serving5Variations6Tips and Tricks7Health Benefits8FAQ9Conclusion Ingredients What do you need? To make this quick and tasty shrimp scampi, you'll need: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1/4 cup of butter 1/4 cup of white wine (optional) 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste 8 ounces of linguine pasta Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Preparation How to prepare? Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the white wine (if using), lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Cooking How long does it take to cook? The cooking process for this shrimp scampi recipe takes only about 10 minutes. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a flavorful dish ready to enjoy in no time. Serving How to serve? Serve the shrimp scampi hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. You can pair it with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors. Variations Any room for creativity? Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the linguine for other types of pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine if desired. Tips and Tricks Any insider tips? To save time on peeling and deveining shrimp, you can purchase them already prepared from the seafood counter at your local grocery store. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the white wine and lemon juice. Don't forget to season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish. Health Benefits Is it healthy? While shrimp scampi may not be the lightest dish on the menu, it does offer some health benefits. Shrimp is low in calories and rich in protein, making it a nutritious choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, the garlic and lemon juice in the sauce provide antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support immune health. FAQ 1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. 2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat it on the stove and cook the shrimp just before serving for the best results. 3. Can I omit the wine from the recipe? Yes, you can omit the white wine from the recipe if you prefer. It adds flavor to the sauce, but the dish will still be delicious without it. 4. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them while they're in the skillet. They should turn pink and opaque on the outside and white and firm on the inside when they're done. 5. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While linguine is traditionally used for shrimp scampi, you can use any type of pasta you like. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne would work well in this dish. Conclusion In just 15 minutes, you can create a gourmet-worthy meal with this quick and easy shrimp scampi recipe. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your skillet and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!