Description
A simple, beginner-proof shrimp scampi pasta recipe that comes together in just 15 minutes. This dish features seared shrimp in a glossy lemon butter sauce with garlic and white wine, served over spaghetti.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tablespoons salt (for pasta water)
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
- 6–8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium lemons (zest and juice)
- ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
- Thaw frozen shrimp under cold water if necessary, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain pasta and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and foaming, add shrimp in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in white wine and lemon juice. Scrape up brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add lemon zest.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss with tongs, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. Add cooked shrimp back to the pan and toss gently to warm through.
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
Pat shrimp dry thoroughly to ensure they sear rather than steam. Do not overcook the garlic as it burns easily. Save pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate per serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: shrimp scampi, pasta recipe, lemon butter, quick dinner, easy seafood, restaurant style, 15 minute meals, garlic shrimp