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Shrimp Scampi Pasta

This shrimp scampi pasta features tender shrimp sautéed with fragrant garlic, finished with a splash of lemon and smoky butter. The dish comes together quickly, with a silky sauce that coats al dente pasta, culminating in a bright, savory, and slightly smoky flavor profile. It’s a simple yet elevated meal perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 1 lb shrimp deveined, peeled
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced and zested
  • 4 tbsp butter unsalted, divided
  • 1/4 cup white wine optional, for deglazing
  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • pinch red pepper flakes optional, for spice
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring Cups
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, peel and devein the shrimp if not already prepared. Pat them dry with paper towels for better searing.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
    4 cloves garlic
  4. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly golden around the edges. Flip once to ensure even cooking.
    4 cloves garlic
  5. Deglaze the pan with the white wine and a squeeze of lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about a minute to reduce slightly.
    4 cloves garlic
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a squeeze of lemon zest, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat the noodles in the flavorful sauce, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce becomes silky and clings to the pasta.
    4 cloves garlic
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
    4 cloves garlic
  8. Serve immediately while hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra bright squeeze. Enjoy the tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and silky pasta in this simple, elegant dish.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked butter or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness.