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A serving of savory shrimp scampi with pasta and herbs.

Best way to cook a perfect Shrimp Scampi in 30 minutes

This classic Shrimp Scampi recipe delivers tender shrimp in a garlicky, buttery, lemon-wine sauce, tossed with pasta for a quick and satisfying meal that's ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Tongs

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant for about 1 minute.
  3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Toss the drained pasta with the shrimp and sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy consistency, then stir in fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.

Notes

For extra flavor, use fresh shrimp and make sure not to overcook them to keep them tender and juicy. A good quality dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the sauce.