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Elegant Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Elegant Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe


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4.6 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi dances with Mediterranean coastal charm, blending zesty citrus and rich buttery notes. Succulent shrimp nestled in a silky white wine sauce promises an effortless gourmet experience you’ll savor with pure Mediterranean delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons (45 grams) capers
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) fresh basil, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Liquids and Fats:

  • 3 tablespoons (42 grams) salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

Instructions

  1. Warm a spacious iron skillet over medium heat, drizzling of extra-virgin olive oil across the surface.
  2. Carefully arrange peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer, ensuring no overlap, and generously season with Italian herb blend, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. Sauté the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, watching for a pinkish-golden transformation and delicate curling edges that indicate perfect doneness.
  4. Transfer the perfectly cooked shrimp to a clean ceramic plate, maintaining their warmth and texture.
  5. Utilize the same skillet to create a fragrant sauce, immediately introducing finely minced fresh garlic and allowing it to release its aromatic essence.
  6. Deglaze the pan with freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately or 45 milliliters) and low-sodium chicken broth, scraping any delectable browned bits from the skillet’s bottom.
  7. Simmer the liquid for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce and concentrate the flavors while softening the garlic.
  8. Remove the skillet from direct heat and incorporate cold unsalted butter, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes silky and emulsified.
  9. Gently reintroduce the sautéed shrimp and briny capers into the luminous sauce, stirring carefully to ensure comprehensive coating and gentle reheating.
  10. Finish the dish with a vibrant garnish of freshly chopped basil leaves, delicate lemon zest, and an optional extra splash of citrus for heightened brightness.

Notes

  • Elevate your weeknight dinner with this zesty seafood sensation that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal.
  • Capers add a tangy punch, cutting through the richness of butter and complementing the succulent shrimp perfectly.
  • Quick-cooking technique ensures tender, juicy shrimp without becoming rubbery or overcooked.
  • Bright lemon zest and juice provide a fresh, citrusy contrast that makes each bite pop with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
  • Versatile dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a light salad for a complete and satisfying dinner experience.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 220 mg