Solo Shrimp Scampi and Pasta is a delightful, quick-to-prepare dish perfect for a satisfying meal for one, or with a side of vegetables, a light lunch for two. This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp, garlic, vermouth, and Parmesan cheese in a simple yet flavorful pasta dish that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vermouth
- 1/4 cup dry pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 handful small salad-size shrimp, thawed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 805.7
- Total Fat: 47.1g
- Saturated Fat: 15.6g
- Cholesterol: 52.5mg
- Sodium: 470.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 73.2g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 22.4g
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients:
- Start by bringing 3 quarts of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Meanwhile, in a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Thaw the shrimp under cold water in a colander.
- Once the water is boiling, add the dry pasta and cook for 5 minutes or until al dente.
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Prepare Shrimp Scampi:
- While the pasta cooks, add the minced garlic and thawed shrimp to the heated olive oil and butter in the frying pan.
- Sauté the garlic and shrimp for about 2 minutes until the shrimp are just cooked through.
- Turn off the heat under the frying pan and immediately add the vermouth. Be cautious as it may create a brief flare-up of flame due to alcohol content.
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Combine and Serve:
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the frying pan with the shrimp and garlic.
- Toss everything together for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the shrimp scampi and pasta mixture to a shallow bowl.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or a light lemony dressing.
- For a heartier meal, serve with steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.
Tips for Success:
- Use small salad-size shrimp for quick cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan cheese according to your taste preferences.
- Vermouth adds a subtle depth of flavor; if unavailable, you can substitute with white wine or omit it altogether.
Conclusion:
Solo Shrimp Scampi and Pasta offers a convenient solution for a delicious meal ready in just 15 minutes, ideal for busy weekdays or cozy solo dinners at home. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a standout dish that showcases how cooking can be both quick and creatively satisfying. Enjoy this recipe as a go-to option whenever you crave a satisfying pasta dish without the fuss.