Shrimp scampi pasta

Here is a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Classic Shrimp Scampi Pasta Serves 4.

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Ingredients

Pasta

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

• Water for boiling

• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1/2 lemon

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (more as needed)

• Freshly grated Parmesan (optional for serving)

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Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.

2. Add 1 tablespoon salt.

3. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

4. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

5. Drain pasta and set aside.

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Step 2: Season the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.

2. Season evenly with:

   • Salt

   • Black pepper

   • Red pepper flakes (if using)

Dry shrimp sear better and develop more flavor.

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Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.

3. Once hot, add shrimp in a single layer.

4. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

5. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Do not overcook; shrimp continue cooking when returned to the pan later.

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Step 4: Build the Scampi Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium.

2. Add remaining butter to the same skillet.

3. Add minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
   Do not brown the garlic.

4. Pour in the white wine (or broth).

5. Simmer 2–3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

6. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet.

2. Toss to coat in the sauce.

3. Add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and stir.
   The starch helps create a silky sauce.

4. Return shrimp to the skillet.

5. Toss gently for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Stir in fresh parsley.

If sauce looks dry, add more pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, lemon).

2. Plate immediately.

3. Top with extra parsley and optional grated Parmesan.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh garlic, not jarred, for the best flavor.

• Choose dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

• Do not rinse pasta after draining.

• Cook shrimp just until opaque to avoid rubbery texture.

• Finish with a small pat of butter off heat for extra richness if desired.

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Optional Variations

• Add 1/2 cup heavy cream for creamy shrimp scampi.

• Stir in halved cherry tomatoes.

• Add baby spinach at the end until wilted.

• Use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.