Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs; 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley; 8 oz linguine pasta (cooked (or pasta of choice))

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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes that brings me back to summers spent by the coast. The moment the aroma of fresh garlic fills the kitchen, I am whisked away to a sun-drenched patio overlooking the waves. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. They were skeptical at first—who wouldn’t be with shrimp being so often overcooked? But as soon as that fragrant mixture of garlic, butter, and shrimp hit the dining table, their doubts melted away just like the butter in the pan. It was a hit! This recipe has become a staple, reminding us of sunny days and laughter shared over good food. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Grater, Peeler, Wooden Spoon

What I love about this dish is its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients yet packs a punch of flavor. The star of the show, of course, is the shrimp. Choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp makes a world of difference in taste and texture. It’s also incredibly quick to prepare, allowing us to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

What’s Great About This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

There’s something magical about perfectly cooked shrimp. When you sauté them just right, they become tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The key is to cook them until they turn that beautiful pink hue—overcooking will lead to rubbery bites. With Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, each shrimp is coated in a rich, buttery sauce that enhances its natural sweetness.

Bold Flavors

The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and butter creates a vibrant flavor profile. Each bite is a delightful dance of richness and acidity, making it an unforgettable experience. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the dish beautifully. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience!

Quick and Easy

In today’s fast-paced world, having quick recipes at your fingertips is priceless. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi can be whipped up in less than twenty minutes. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something special but don’t have the time to fuss over a complicated recipe.

A Versatile Dish

This dish is incredibly versatile. While it’s perfect on a bed of linguine, you can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping or over a fresh salad for a lighter meal. It fits effortlessly into any dining scenario, whether it’s a cozy dinner with family or a fancy date night.

Made for Sharing

Food is best when shared, and Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is no exception. It’s a dish that invites conversation and connection. Gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy the laughter and joy that comes with sharing a meal made from the heart.

FAQ

The best type of shrimp for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is medium to large-sized, fresh **shrimp**. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild sea scent. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. Wild-caught shrimp tend to have a more robust flavor compared to farmed shrimp, making them a great choice for this dish.

Absolutely! While linguine is traditional for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work well. Just ensure that you cook the pasta according to the package instructions. The key is to toss it in the delicious **shrimp** sauce, allowing the pasta to soak up all the flavors.

To prevent your **shrimp** from becoming rubbery, it’s essential to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking by closely monitoring them. As soon as they curl up and change color, they’re done. Also, starting with fresh **shrimp** will help significantly, as frozen shrimp can sometimes give off excess moisture if not prepared correctly.

When serving Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal. Steamed vegetables or a light risotto can also complement this dish beautifully. If you want a more robust side, try some roasted potatoes or a pasta salad. The versatility of this dish allows for plenty of pairing options!

Conclusion

The Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its perfect blend of flavors and quick preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to try it tonight and make it your own. Enjoy the cooking process and even more, enjoy sharing it with loved ones!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a vibrant, easy weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor. The combination of fresh shrimp and zesty lemon creates a delightful experience that you won’t forget. Perfect for a quick meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 cloves garlic minced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup olive oil
1 pound uncooked medium shrimp peeled and deveined
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
8 oz linguine pasta cooked (or pasta of choice)

Equipment

Skillet
Grater
Peeler
Wooden Spoon

Method

In a 10 inch skillet, sauté garlic in butter and olive oil for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. The garlic should turn a light golden hue, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Add the shrimp, lemon juice, and pepper. Cook and stir until the shrimp turn pink, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely as they cook to avoid overcooking.
In a small bowl, combine pepper, dried oregano, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and parsley. This mixture will add a lovely crunch and flavor to the dish.
Sprinkle the mixture on top of the cooked shrimp and broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on the oven during this time. You want it just to start to brown, giving you that perfect crispy texture and a rich appearance.
Once broiled, serve hot with the cooked linguine pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the delicious sauce from the shrimp. The flavors meld beautifully.

Notes

Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tip 2: Freezing cooked dishes like this is not recommended as the texture of the shrimp may change.
Tip 3: This dish can be made with other seafood like scallops or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Tip 4: Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Tip 5: Consider adding some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.