Name: Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz. linguine; 1 1/2 lbs uncooked extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 Tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 4 tsp); 1/2 cup dry white wine; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp Scampi is a classic, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce served over linguine. This quick and elegant meal is perfect for weeknights or special occasions when you want something impressive yet simple.

A large white oval dish filled with a layered shrimp pasta dish. The bottom layer is light yellow linguine pasta, spread evenly. On top are many pink and white shrimp, arranged to be visible all over the pasta. Scattered green chopped parsley pieces are sprinkled over the shrimp and pasta, adding color contrast. The shrimp have a slight grilled texture with small specks of black pepper. On the side, there is a sprig of green parsley, two lemon halves with bright yellow peel and light juicy interiors, and vintage silver serving spoons with ornate handles. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface with a soft gray cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz. linguine
1 1/2 lbs uncooked extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced (about 4 tsp)
1/2 cup dry white wine*
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/8 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, which can be used later to thin the sauce if needed.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter with olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until just lightly golden without browning to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Pour in the dry white wine and simmer until it reduces by half, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet in an even layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook the shrimp for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss the shrimp and sauce with the cooked linguine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle spicy kick, or omit for a milder dish.
Try swapping linguine for spaghetti or angel hair pasta to vary the texture.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent the shrimp from overcooking.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with cooked linguine pasta forms the base layer, light yellow and slightly glossy, twisted and piled high. Scattered on top are several plump, pink-orange shrimp with curved tails, their shells partly peeled showing white flesh; some shrimp have a light char texture. Fresh green chopped parsley sprinkled over everything adds vibrant color contrast. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the left side, slightly over the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture surface, with a second similar bowl, a glass of light yellow wine, a lemon half, and green parsley leaves visible out of focus in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Drain any excess moisture to avoid watering down the sauce.

What kind of white wine is best for shrimp scampi?

Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the dish’s flavor balance.