Shrimp Scampi (a Lighter Version)
🕒 Total Time: 35 minutes
🥘 Cook Time: 5 minutes
🔪 Prep Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
Description:
An adaptation from The Italian-American Cookbook, this recipe offers a lighter take on the classic shrimp scampi. The smaller the shrimp, the longer the prep time, a lesson learned from past dinner mishaps!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 28 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
-
Preparation: Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp, ensuring they are clean and ready for cooking.
-
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is fragrant.
-
Saute Shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, just until they start to turn pink and firm up slightly.
-
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
-
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and incorporate any browned bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Bring to Boil: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Reduce Heat: Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 30 seconds to allow the alcohol to cook off slightly.
-
Add Parsley and Lemon Juice: Sprinkle in the chopped parsley and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, tossing everything together well to coat evenly.
-
Final Cook: Cook for an additional minute or until the shrimp are fully cooked through and opaque, being careful not to overcook them.
-
Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the shrimp scampi to a serving dish. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
This delightful shrimp scampi is best served immediately, paired with your favorite side dishes such as pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Enjoy this quick and delicious European-inspired dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends and family. 🍤🍋