Classic Shrimp Scampi Over Linguine: A Restaurant-Quality Delight at Home

Craving a restaurant-style meal that’s easy to make at home? Look no further than shrimp scampi over linguine. With juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and a touch of white wine, tossed over perfectly cooked linguine, this dish delivers elegance in every bite. Whether for a date night or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines rich flavors and light textures to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 20g
• Dietary Preference: Pescatarian

Ingredients List

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 12 oz linguine (340g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 450g)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Cook the linguine:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (about 9-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Sauté the garlic and shrimp:
   While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
3. Add the shrimp:
   Place the shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Deglaze with white wine:
   In the same skillet, pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Create the sauce:
   Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter and lemon juice to the pan, stirring until the butter melts. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
6. Toss the pasta:
   Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and sprinkle in the chopped parsley. Toss everything gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately:
   Transfer the shrimp scampi over linguine to serving bowls. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use large shrimp: Jumbo or large shrimp work best for this recipe since they stay tender and juicy when cooked briefly.
• Avoid overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
• Wine substitute: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with chicken broth or vegetable stock.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding a bit of starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best wine for shrimp scampi?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works best. Avoid sweet wines as they can overpower the dish’s savory flavors.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for a few minutes or in the refrigerator overnight.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting the linguine with gluten-free pasta.

Can I make shrimp scampi without Parmesan?

Absolutely! The Parmesan is optional and can be left out if you prefer a lighter dish or need a dairy-free option.

This shrimp scampi over linguine is the perfect combination of indulgent and simple. The tender shrimp, fragrant garlic butter, and hint of wine come together beautifully to create a dish that feels special without being complicated. Whether for a cozy night at home or an elegant dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress every time you serve it.