Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of tender linguine. This dish is a perfect marriage of seafood and pasta, with the bright flavors of garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs complementing the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 8 ounces linguine, cooked according to package directions, drained, rinsed, and set aside
- 4 teaspoons garlic, freshly minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ cup white cooking wine
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Clean Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the shells and devein if necessary.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine
- Cook Linguine: Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Saute Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white cooking wine and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Season: Season the sauce with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, adjusting to taste as needed.
- Add Butter and Herbs: Stir in the butter, chopped parsley, and fresh basil, allowing the butter to melt and the herbs to infuse into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Linguine
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the shrimp scampi with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh herbs offer the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if necessary. Use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
- Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
- Extra Vegetables: Enhance the dish with additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a gluten-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape in place of linguine. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta would all work well in this dish.
Q: What can I substitute for white cooking wine? A: If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for the white cooking wine. Alternatively, you can use a combination of lemon juice and broth for a citrusy flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately, then reheat the sauce and combine with the pasta just before serving.
Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its succulent shrimp, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that satisfies both comfort food cravings and gourmet appetites alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of Shrimp Scampi