Scampi alla Busara – A Classic Italian Seafood Delight
Scampi alla Busara is a quintessential Venetian dish that celebrates the bounty of the Adriatic Sea. Bursting with flavors of fresh seafood, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spicy chili, this recipe is perfect for a special dinner or any occasion where you want to impress with a touch of Italian culinary tradition. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to prepare this mouthwatering dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare Scampi alla Busara for 4 people:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Scampi (langoustines) | 1 kg |
| Peeled tomatoes | 300 g |
| Dry white wine | 50 ml |
| Breadcrumbs | 20 g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh parsley | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Fine salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | ~30 g |
| Fats | ~15 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
| Sodium | ~500 mg |
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the scampi: Rinse the scampi thoroughly under cold running water. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make a vertical cut along the back of each scampi to reveal the flesh and allow the sauce to seep in during cooking. |
| 2 | Prepare the base: Heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the peeled garlic clove and the whole chili pepper to the oil. To make them easier to remove later, you can pierce the garlic and chili with a toothpick. |
| 3 | Toast the breadcrumbs: Once the garlic is golden and aromatic, add the breadcrumbs. Stir constantly to prevent burning. This step will help thicken the tomato sauce and add a subtle nutty flavor. |
| 4 | Cook the scampi: Add the cleaned scampi to the pan, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Pour in the white wine and allow it to evaporate for about 2 minutes. |
| 5 | Add the tomatoes: Chop the peeled tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the pan. Stir gently to coat the scampi in the sauce, then season with a pinch of fine salt. Cover the pan with a lid and let the dish simmer for 15 minutes over low heat. |
| 6 | Prepare the garnish: While the scampi are cooking, finely chop the fresh parsley. This will add a fresh and vibrant touch to the finished dish. |
| 7 | Finish and serve: Before serving, remove the chili pepper and garlic clove from the pan. Plate the scampi alla Busara, sprinkle with the chopped parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. |
Cooking Tips
- Freshness Matters: Opt for the freshest scampi you can find for the best flavor. Frozen scampi can be used but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Breadcrumb Alternative: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can skip the breadcrumbs and let the sauce thicken naturally during cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili pepper to your taste. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before adding it to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Scampi alla Busara pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino. Serve alongside a fresh green salad and warm, crusty bread to complete the meal. This dish is best enjoyed immediately to savor the tender texture of the scampi and the vibrant flavors of the sauce.
Dive into the flavors of the Adriatic with this exquisite dish, and let the simplicity of Italian cooking elevate your next meal. For more delightful seafood recipes, explore our collection on Love With Recipes. Buon appetito!
