Save A quick and vibrant shrimp dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
I often make this dish when I need something fast but impressive for guests or a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp: peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic: finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional):
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth):
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons):
- Zest of 1 lemon:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: finely chopped
- Cooked pasta, crusty bread, or steamed rice (optional):
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- Add the garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, lemon zest, and parsley. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Step 7:
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Pin it This dish always brings the family together around the dinner table filled with smiles and compliments.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the lemon and garlic flavors.
Health Benefits
This recipe is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a balanced and nutritious meal option.
Variations
Add fresh basil or chives instead of parsley for a different herbal note, or include a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Pin it 
Enjoy this flavorful, fast, and fuss-free shrimp scampi as a go-to meal any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook shrimp for only 1-2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
- → Can I substitute wine in this dish?
Yes, dry white wine can be replaced with chicken broth or vegetable stock to maintain flavor without alcohol.
- → What pasta pairs well with this dish?
Long, slender pastas like linguine or spaghetti complement the light garlic butter sauce perfectly.
- → Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
While shrimp is central, you can substitute with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu for a similar texture.
- → How can I add more heat to the dish?
Introduce extra crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during the garlic sauté for a spicier finish.