Ingredients
Main Course:
The main course for our Shrimp Scampi Recipe consists of several essential ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Here are the key components that make up the main course:
- Succulent Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp is a must-have for this recipe. Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is a crucial element in Shrimp Scampi. It adds richness, flavor, and a smooth texture to the dish.
- Garlic: Mince three to four cloves of garlic and sauté them until fragrant for added depth of flavor.
- Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
For a more authentic Italian twist, consider adding some of the following ingredients to your Shrimp Scampi:
- White Wine: A small amount of dry white wine can be used to deglaze the pan and add flavor to the sauce.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved or quartered cherry tomatoes add a burst of juicy sweetness to the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the shrimp for an creamy, indulgent touch.
In addition to these ingredients, there are several pantry staples that will elevate your Shrimp Scampi game:
- Grated Nutmeg: Add a pinch of grated nutmeg to the garlic butter mixture for added warmth and depth.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Use freshly ground black pepper to add a subtle kick to the dish.
Remember, the key to creating a truly exceptional Shrimp Scampi is to use high-quality ingredients and attention to detail in both the preparation and presentation of the dish.
Shrimp (12 large), garlic (45 cloves), white wine (1/2 cup), lemon juice (2 tablespoons), butter (4 tablespoons), parsley (1/4 cup)
The ingredients required for this delectable Shrimp Scampi Recipe are a blend of fresh and savory elements that combine to create an exquisite culinary experience.
Among the essential components, 12 large shrimp take center stage, offering a meaty texture and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
The aromatic trio of garlic, white wine, and lemon juice add depth and brightness to the dish, respectively. Specifically:
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45 cloves of garlic are used, minced to release their pungent flavor and aroma.
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Half a cup of dry white wine adds a subtle acidity and helps to balance the richness of the dish.
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Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice provide a tangy and citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Butter is also an essential component, adding a luxurious texture and creamy richness to the dish. A total of 4 tablespoons are used, melted to perfection and infused with the flavors of garlic, white wine, and lemon juice.
The finishing touch comes in the form of fresh parsley, added at the end of cooking to preserve its bright green color and vibrant flavor. One-quarter cup is sufficient to provide a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Seasonings:
When it comes to creating a delicious **Shrimp Scampi** recipe, the ingredients and seasonings play a crucial role in bringing out the flavors and aromas of this classic Italian-American dish.
The main ingredient of course is the _shrimp_, which should be fresh and of high quality. You’ll need about 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined.
Other essential ingredients include:
- Margarine or Butter: This will add richness and a subtle nutty flavor to your dish.
- Garlic**: You’ll need 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, depending on your taste. Fresh garlic is always best, as it adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with powder or jarred varieties.
- Parsley: A handful of fresh parsley will add color and freshness to your dish. You can use curly-leaf or flat-leaf parsley, whichever you prefer.
- White wine**: This is the foundation of a good scampi sauce. Use a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for the best results.
- Butter: Yes, you read that right – butter! A pat of unsalted butter will add a richness and creaminess to your dish.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice will brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity to balance out the richness of the sauce.
Now, let’s talk seasonings. Here are some essential ones:
- Paprika**: This adds a smoky depth to your dish.
- Black pepper**: Freshly ground black pepper is always best – it adds a sharpness and brightness to your flavors.
When preparing your Shrimp Scampi recipe, don’t overcook the shrimp! Cook them until they’re just opaque and still slightly pink in the center. And remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly as you hoped – with a little tweaking and experimentation, you’ll get it just right!
Salt, pepper
The key to a successful Shrimp Scampi recipe lies in the quality and quantity of its ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
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12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Aromatics:
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1 small onion, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced (additional to the above)
Pantry Staples:
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
When it comes to salt and pepper in the Shrimp Scampi recipe, a little goes a long way. Salt enhances the flavors of the shrimp and other ingredients, while pepper adds depth and warmth. Here’s why:
The Role of Salt:
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Enhances flavor: Salt brings out the natural sweetness in the shrimp, making them taste more succulent and tender.
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Texture: Salt helps to balance the texture of the dish by reducing the sweetness of the lemon juice and garlic.
The Role of Pepper:
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Adds depth: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth to the dish, which complements the citrusy flavor of the lemon juice.
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Texture: Like salt, pepper helps to balance the texture of the dish by reducing the sweetness and adding a nice crunch from the garlic and onion.
In conclusion, when it comes to Salt and Pepper in the Shrimp Scampi recipe, use them sparingly but intentionally. A pinch of salt will enhance the flavors of the shrimp, while a few grinds of black pepper will add depth and warmth to the dish.
Instructions
Cooking the Shrimp:
To cook shrimp for the Shrimp Scampi recipe, start by preparing a large pot of salted water for boiling. Fill the pot with enough cold water to cover the shrimp, and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every quart of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the raw shrimp to the pot. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the shrimp to stick together during cooking. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to turn pink and float to the surface of the water. Remove the cooked shrimp from the boiling water with a slotted spoon, and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Once the shrimp have cooled slightly, remove them from the ice water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove excess moisture and prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy during cooking.
To prepare the garlic butter sauce for the Shrimp Scampi recipe, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden brown.
Add 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1/4 cup of white wine (such as Pinot Grigio) to the saucepan with the garlic butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
To assemble the Shrimp Scampi dish, combine the cooked shrimp with the garlic butter sauce in a large serving dish. Toss the shrimp in the sauce until they are fully coated, then season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Cook the shrimp in boiling water for 23 minutes until pink. Drain and set aside.
When it comes to cooking shrimp for a delicious Shrimp Scampi Recipe, following the correct instructions is crucial to achieve the perfect dish.
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to cook the shrimp:
- Cooking Time:** Cooking time may vary depending on personal preference and type of shrimp. However, as a general guideline, it’s recommended to cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink.
- Method of Cooking:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 23 minutes, or until they have turned pink.
- Draining and Setting Aside:** After cooking the shrimp for 23 minutes, remove them from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate to cool. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving.
Remember that overcooking the shrimp can make it tough and rubbery, so be sure to keep an eye on them while they’re cooking.
It’s also worth noting that different types of shrimp may have slightly varying cooking times, so it’s always best to check with your local fishmonger or a trusted cookbook for specific instructions on how to cook the type of shrimp you have at home.
In any case, don’t overcook them – it’s better to err on the side of undercooking and then letting them finish cooking after draining. This will help ensure that your Shrimp Scampi Recipe turns out deliciously tender and flavorful.
Preparation and Serving
Preparing the Scampi Sauce:
To prepare a delicious Shrimp Scampi dish, one of the key components is the scampi sauce, which serves as the flavorful base for this classic Italian-American recipe.
The scampi sauce is a simple yet rich mixture that requires just a few ingredients: garlic, butter, parsley, salt, and lemon juice. The proportions of these ingredients can be adjusted to taste, but here’s a basic guide:
Start by finely mincing 3-4 cloves of garlic. You want the garlic to be very fine, as it will cook quickly and release its flavors into the sauce.
Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes or until fragrant and slightly golden brown.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley. Be sure to use fresh parsley for its bright, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of butter and garlic.
Now, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice – about 2 tablespoons should do it – and season with salt to taste. You can also adjust the amount of lemon juice depending on your preference for acidity in the sauce.
Mix everything together well until the flavors are fully combined and the sauce has cooled slightly. This scampi sauce will be your base flavor, so feel free to modify it based on personal preferences or ingredient availability.
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add white wine and lemon juice; stir well.
To prepare a delicious Shrimp Scampi dish, it’s essential to start with proper preparation and serving techniques.
Firstly, choose high-quality ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Next, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. You can use either a stainless steel, cast-iron, or non-stick skillet. The key is to ensure the butter melts evenly and doesn’t burn.
Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic** and sauté for 1 minute**. This will allow the aroma of the garlic to infuse into the dish. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become overpowering.
After the garlic has sautéed, add white wine and lemon juice; stir well. The acidity in the wine will help to balance the richness of the butter, while the lemon juice will add a burst of citrus flavor. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent the liquid from boiling over.
Now it’s time to add the shrimp**. Arrange them in a single layer in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent even cooking.
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste**. You can also add a pat of butter on top of each serving for added richness.
Finally, garnish with chopped parsley or basil (if using). This will not only add a pop of color to the dish but also provide an extra burst of fresh flavor.
Now your Shrimp Scampi is ready to be served! Enjoy it over linguine or fettuccine for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
Serving:
To prepare and serve Shrimp Scampi, it’s essential to have all the ingredients and tools ready before starting. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.
Here are some key preparation steps:
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Fresh parsley: Choose fresh parsley leaves with no signs of wilting or discoloration. Wash the leaves thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt, and pat them dry with paper towels.
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Shrimp: Select large shrimp with shells that are firm and evenly colored. Rinse the shrimp under cold running water to remove any impurities.
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Lemon juice and zest: Use a high-quality lemon for its juice and zest, as it will add depth of flavor to the dish. Cut the lemon in half and extract the juice using a manual or electric juicer.
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Garlic: Peel and mince 2-3 cloves of garlic depending on your preference for garlic flavor.
Once the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to set up your cooking station:
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Pot and utensils: Fill a large pot with salted water (about 1-2 tablespoons of kosher salt for every quart of water) and bring it to a boil. Prepare a colander or strainer to hold the cooked shrimp.
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Butter melting pan: In another saucepan, melt about 4-6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not burnt (about 1-2 minutes).
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Cooking station setup: Set up a serving area with plates, serving utensils, lemon wedges, and fresh parsley for garnishing.
Now that you’re ready to cook, follow the recipe instructions:
* Bring the large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pot with a slotted spoon or skimmer.
* Add the lemon juice and zest to the butter melting pan, stirring to combine.
* Combine the cooked shrimp with the garlic-lemon butter mixture in a large serving bowl.
* Toss everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
* Garnish each plate with fresh parsley leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Finally, serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi!
Place cooked shrimp on a serving plate, pour the scampi sauce over them and garnish with parsley.
When it comes to preparing and serving a delicious dish like shrimp scampi, presentation plays a crucial role in making the meal look as appealing as it tastes. The process begins with placing cooked shrimp on a serving plate, which should be large enough to accommodate all of the ingredients.
The serving plate should be clean and free of any debris or old food residue, ensuring that the dish looks fresh and appetizing to the eyes. A simple yet elegant touch is to use a decorative plate or one with a subtle pattern that complements the color of the shrimp and scampi sauce.
Once the serving plate has been selected and cleaned, it’s time to add the cooked shrimp. These can be arranged in a single layer or slightly overlapping each other, depending on their size and how they look best on the plate. The goal is to create a visually appealing pattern that invites the diner to take a bite.
Next, the scampi sauce needs to be poured over the shrimp. This is typically done by spooning it over the top of the shrimp in a smooth, even motion. Be careful not to pour too much sauce at once, as this can lead to a soggy plate and an unappealing presentation.
It’s also essential to consider the temperature of the scampi sauce before pouring it over the shrimp. If it’s too hot, it may cause the shrimp to cook further or even change its texture. On the other hand, if it’s too cold, it won’t stick well to the shrimp and may look unappetizing.
After the scampi sauce has been poured over the shrimp, it’s time to garnish the dish with some fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the flavors of the scampi sauce and shrimp perfectly. A sprig or two of parsley is all that’s needed – too much can overpower the other ingredients.
The final step in preparing and serving the shrimp scampi dish is to place it on the table or buffet where everyone can see it and enjoy it. This is often done just before mealtime, so that everything stays fresh and hot until everyone is ready to eat.
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