Description
Summer Shrimp Scampi is a light and flavorful Italian-American pasta dish perfect for warm weather. It features juicy large shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic, white wine, and fresh lemon sauce, tossed with linguine or angel hair pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This quick and easy stovetop recipe balances bright citrus and savory Parmesan, making it ideal for a fast, elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces linguine or angel hair pasta
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or angel hair pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the aroma but not allowing it to brown.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze & Simmer Sauce: Pour the white wine and fresh lemon juice into the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the flavors meld.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook just until they begin to soften, about 1 to 2 minutes, preserving their fresh texture.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained pasta, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss everything gently to evenly coat.
- Season & Serve: Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Fresh basil can be added for an aromatic herbaceous note.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Using dry white wine adds authentic flavor, but chicken broth is a good non-alcoholic substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
