The aroma of sizzling garlic and plump shrimp fills the kitchen as you prepare to indulge in a plate of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. This delightful dish is a sensory celebration that brightens any mealtime with its savory richness and buttery goodness.
Imagine diving into a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, laden with juicy shrimp that practically dance on your palate. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish is bound to steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-follow recipe makes meal prep quick and enjoyable
- The blend of flavors creates a symphony for your taste buds
- Visually appealing, the dish showcases vibrant colors that enhance any dining experience
- Perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners, this dish never disappoints
One unforgettable evening, I whipped up this shrimp scampi for my family and watched their faces light up with delight as they took their first bites. It turned out to be a memorable night filled with laughter and satisfied smiles.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Shrimp: Use large, peeled and deveined shrimp for maximum flavor; fresh or frozen will work.
- Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are perfect choices; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced versions for better taste.
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides a rich base; feel free to use more for extra indulgence.
- Olive Oil: A splash of high-quality olive oil adds depth; it also helps prevent the butter from burning.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness at the end; dried parsley lacks the same vibrancy.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended if you love a little heat in your scampi.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together until bubbling. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant — about 1 minute — being careful not to let it brown.
Add the Shrimp: Toss in the fresh shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side—stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Mix in Lemon Juice & Spices: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp while sprinkling red pepper flakes if desired. Stir gently to combine flavors as you watch everything come together beautifully.
Toss with Pasta: Drain your pasta once cooked and add it directly into the skillet with shrimp. Carefully toss everything together until each strand is coated in that mouthwatering sauce.
Garnish & Serve!: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your creation before serving hot. Pair with crusty bread for those who want to soak up every bit of that amazing sauce!
Now you’re ready to enjoy one of life’s simple pleasures! Serve this delightful Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi at your next gathering or simply indulge yourself on a weekday evening when you crave something special without all the fuss!
You Must Know
- Mastering Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is about balancing flavors and timing
- The aroma of garlic and butter will fill your kitchen, creating a delicious atmosphere
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy, not rubbery!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by sautéing garlic in butter, then add shrimp. While the shrimp cook, prepare your pasta so everything melds together deliciously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or swapping out shrimp for scallops or chicken for variety.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid toughening the shrimp.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced
- Adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Always taste as you go to ensure a balanced seasoning
Sharing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi with friends always brings smiles; their ecstatic reactions make cooking worthwhile and remind me why I love this dish so much.
FAQ
Can I make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives or zucchini noodles.
How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; avoid overcooking them for tenderness.
What sides pair well with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Garlic bread or a fresh garden salad complements this dish perfectly for a complete meal.
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a flavorful seafood dish that brings together succulent shrimp and pasta in a savory garlic butter sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil until bubbling. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with shrimp; toss until well combined.
- Top with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 220mg