Description
This Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe features succulent jumbo shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of spicy red pepper flakes and brightened by fresh lemon juice and parsley. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and flavorful meal ideal for weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (21 to 30 per pound), peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt, a pinch
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (half of total)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (remaining half)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or broth
- 1/2 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl. Add a pinch of kosher salt, half of the minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Toss the mixture gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour if preparing ahead.
- Sear the shrimp: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated shrimp. Cook each side for about 1 to 1.5 minutes until the shrimp begins to turn pink. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp onto a plate, noting that some shrimp might still have a slight grey tint as they will finish cooking later in the sauce.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté briefly just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the white wine or broth and the lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt completely while swirling the pan to combine the sauce smoothly.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the seared shrimp to the skillet and gently toss or stir to coat them thoroughly in the sauce. Cook together until the shrimp are fully done and opaque, about 1-2 additional minutes. Remove the pan from heat and garnish by stirring in the fresh parsley and lemon zest. Add more red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Marinating the shrimp enhances flavor and tenderness but is optional if short on time.
- Use dry white wine for best flavor, but broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the butter or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
