Shrimp Scampi

Name: Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 450 grams large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 120 ml dry white wine; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; to taste salt; to taste black pepper; 300 grams linguine pasta

A luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish, shrimp scampi melds succulent shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce that clings to each tender morsel. Finished with a hint of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley, this dish embodies the essence of comfort without sacrificing sophistication.

Updated April 27, 2026

min total

servings

450

cal / serving

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Origin

Shrimp scampi, a dish originating from the Italian-American kitchens of the mid-20th century, draws its name from the small, sweet shrimp known as 'scampi' in Italian. While traditionally prepared in Italy with various seafood, the American version emphasizes garlic, butter, and white wine, creating a rich sauce that has become a beloved classic.

Ingredients

450 gramslarge shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbspunsalted butter
2 tbspextra-virgin olive oil
4 clovesgarlic, minced
120 mldry white wine
2 tbsplemon juice
2 tbspfresh parsley, chopped
to tastesalt
to tasteblack pepper
300 gramslinguine pasta

Instructions

01
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial for flavoring the pasta; sufficient salt will enhance the overall dish. Add linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
02
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter and olive oil. The combination yields a rich base, allowing the butter to foam without burning. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
03
Step 3: Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a watchful eye.
04
Step 4: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors.
05
Step 5: Drain the pasta, reserving about 60 ml of pasta water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce. If the mixture appears dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
06
Step 6: Finish with fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parsley if desired.

Chef's notes

Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be just opaque and springy to the touch.
If you don't have dry white wine, chicken broth can be a substitute, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Make ahead by preparing the sauce in advance and reheating gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.