Red Lobster-Style Shrimp Scampi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, white wine, and lemon juice creates a savory sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully.

• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups white wine (such as Chardonnay)

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Shrimp:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

   • Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

   • Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

   • Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

   • Stir in the Italian seasoning.

   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce by half, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce.

   • Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the shrimp through.

   • Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

   • Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a spicy version.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor.

• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

2. What type of white wine is best?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works well.

3. Can I substitute the wine?

Yes, you can use chicken broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.

4. How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking can make them tough.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

The scampi itself is gluten-free; ensure any accompaniments like pasta or bread are also gluten-free if needed.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, adding spinach or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish.

7. What can I serve with shrimp scampi?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it, adding the shrimp just before serving.

9. How can I thicken the sauce?

Letting the sauce reduce longer will thicken it; avoid adding flour or cornstarch, as it can alter the texture.

10. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s not recommended, as reheating can make them rubbery. Fresh or thawed raw shrimp are best.

Conclusion

Recreating Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi at home is a delightful way to enjoy this classic dish without dining out. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it with your preferred side, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

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