Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Indulge in this classic Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Linguine, a perfect blend of succulent shrimp and al dente pasta tossed in a zesty garlic-lemon sauce. This restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, ready in just 35 minutes!
Equipment
- 1 Large pot (4-6 quart capacity, for boiling pasta)
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan (12-inch diameter)
- 1 Colander (for draining pasta)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Sharp chef's knife
- 1 Garlic press (optional, for mincing garlic)
- 1 Zester or fine grater (for lemon zest)
- 1 Set of measuring cups
- 1 Set of measuring spoons
- 1 Wooden spoon or pair of tongs (for stirring and tossing)
- 1 Medium plate or bowl (for setting aside cooked shrimp)
- 1 Cup or ladle (1-cup capacity, for reserving pasta water)
- 4 Serving plates
Ingredients
Pasta
- 14 oz linguine pasta (about 4 cups cooked) [400 g]
Shrimp
- 1.3 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined [600 g]
Sauce Base
- ¼ cup cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ⅓ cup dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio) OR vegetable broth
Flavoring and Garnish
- 2 whole lemons (juice and zest)
- ½ cup cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for dairy-free version)
- As needed Salt and black pepper, to taste
- As needed Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Bring 4 quarts (16 cups) of salted water to a boil in a large pot (about 1 tbsp of salt).
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook Shrimp
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Cook shrimp in a single layer (in batches if necessary) for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and curved
- Remove shrimp to a plate and cover to keep warm
Make Sauce
- Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and 3 tbsp butter.
- Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add wine (or broth), reduce by half (2-3 minutes).
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, simmer for 1 minute.
Cook Pasta
- While making the sauce, cook pasta al dente per package instructions.
- Reserve 1 cup of cooking water before draining.
Combine and Serve
- Return shrimp to the skillet with sauce, heat for 1 minute.
- Add drained pasta and 1/2 cup reserved cooking water. Toss to coat.
- Incorporate remaining 1 tbsp butter and chopped parsley. Add more cooking water if needed.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately on warm plates, garnished with Parmesan (if using) and lemon slices.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from shrimp, supporting muscle health and satiety
- Contains omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart and brain health
- Garlic offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
- Lemon provides vitamin C, aiding in iron absorption and skin health
- Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
- Parsley adds vitamin K, important for bone health and blood clotting
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
- Add garlic bread or bruschetta for a complete Italian-inspired meal
- Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on the side
- Garnish with additional lemon wedges for those who prefer extra zest
- For a lighter meal, serve over zucchini noodles instead of pasta
Meal Prep Tips
- Peel and devein shrimp in advance, storing in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- Mince garlic and chop parsley ahead of time, storing in airtight containers
- Measure out dry ingredients and store in labeled containers or bags
- Cook pasta al dente, toss with a bit of olive oil, and refrigerate separately
- Prepare the garlic-lemon sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve
- For best results, cook the shrimp just before serving to maintain their texture
Customization Ideas
- Swap linguine for your favorite pasta shape or use gluten-free pasta if needed
- Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for extra nutrition
- Try different herbs such as basil or cilantro in place of or alongside parsley
- Use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different protein option
- Make it spicier by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes
- Create a creamy version by adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce
- For a lighter option, reduce the amount of butter and use more olive oil
