Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi

Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi is a timeless classic that combines simplicity and elegance in one delicious dish. Known for her approachable and flavorful recipes, Ina brings this seafood staple to life with a harmonious blend of garlic, lemon, white wine, and tender shrimp, served over al dente pasta. This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties, offering restaurant-quality flavor without the complexity.

The beauty of shrimp scampi lies in its ability to elevate humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of butter, olive oil, and fresh parsley creates a rich yet balanced sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Meanwhile, the zesty brightness of lemon and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile, making it an irresistible favorite.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi is a recipe that delivers every time. With straightforward steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish is as satisfying to prepare as it is to eat. Let’s dive into the details and bring this classic recipe to life in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
• Elegant and Versatile: Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, this dish strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and sophistication.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a bright and aromatic sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, switch up the herbs, or serve it over zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in one pan, this recipe keeps cleanup to a minimum, letting you enjoy the meal stress-free.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: Approximately 1 1/2 cups of shrimp and pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/3 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Extra parsley
• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the white wine, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce.
2. Stir in the parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time.
3. Transfer the shrimp scampi to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and retain their juicy texture. Make sure to devein and peel them for the best eating experience.

Lemon: The zest and juice of fresh lemon add a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter.

White Wine: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, enhances the sauce with its subtle acidity and depth of flavor.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a key ingredient, infusing the sauce with a robust and aromatic base.

Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully while maintaining a light feel.

Technique Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will finish cooking in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley are essential for the dish’s bright and vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together, ensuring a silky texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Rice: Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a gluten-free alternative.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb twist, replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles.
• Appetizer Style: Serve the shrimp scampi without pasta in small ramekins, garnished with crusty bread for dipping.
• Seafood Medley: Add scallops or mussels for a seafood medley that’s perfect for entertaining.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Pasta: Opt for bronze-cut pasta, which has a rougher texture that holds onto the sauce better.
• Adjust Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
• Deglaze Properly: Scrape the skillet well when adding wine to capture all the flavor-packed bits.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier version.
• Garlic-Lover’s Scampi: Double the garlic for an extra punch of flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or basil for a more herbaceous flavor profile.
• Vegetable Additions: Include sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for a more colorful and nutrient-packed dish.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing cooked pasta, as it can become mushy.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole-Wheat Pasta: Use whole-wheat linguine for added fiber and nutrients.
• Less Butter: Reduce the butter and increase the olive oil for a lighter sauce.
• Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale for extra vitamins and minerals.
• Low-Sodium: Use a low-sodium chicken broth instead of white wine and reduce added salt.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Party: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc and a side of garlic bread for an elegant meal.
• Romantic Dinner: Serve with a mixed greens salad and a chilled glass of rosé for an intimate evening.
• Family Night: Offer with a side of roasted vegetables and a pitcher of iced tea for a comforting family meal.
• Holiday Feast: Include shrimp scampi as part of a seafood-themed holiday dinner alongside crab cakes and lobster tails.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and helps coat the pasta in the sauce.
• Microplane Zester: Ideal for zesting lemons to add bright citrus notes to the dish.
• Tongs: Makes tossing the pasta and shrimp with the sauce easier and more effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have white wine?
   Substitute with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for similar acidity.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
4. What pasta works best for shrimp scampi?
   Linguine and spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can also use angel hair or fettuccine.
5. How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?
   Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to prevent toughness.
6. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Replace butter with additional olive oil and use a dairy-free cheese substitute if desired.
7. What side dishes pair well with shrimp scampi?
   Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad are excellent options.
8. Can I add more seafood to this recipe?
   Absolutely! Scallops, mussels, or crab meat make wonderful additions to shrimp scampi.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi is a versatile, elegant dish that never fails to impress. Its bright flavors, tender shrimp, and luscious sauce come together effortlessly, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this scampi offers the perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity.

With endless variations and serving possibilities, this dish is as adaptable as it is delicious. Try it today and experience the magic of Ina Garten’s timeless recipe in your own kitchen!

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