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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

A quick and flavorful shrimp scampi recipe with garlic, lemon, butter, and pasta, ready in just 20 minutes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan optional but recommended

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Add shrimp to the pan with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  5. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to allow alcohol to cook off.
  7. Add lemon juice and zest to the pan. Stir to combine.
  8. Return shrimp to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes to warm through. Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  9. Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss until evenly coated with sauce.
  10. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  11. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor. If replacing wine, use chicken or vegetable broth. Adjust red pepper flakes to preferred spice level. Excellent served with garlic bread or a fresh salad.