Step-by-step instructions
Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Once done, remove the shrimp and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully stir in the white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and zest. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the drained spaghetti and reserved pasta water, adding as needed to help coat the pasta. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley and mix everything together well.
Serve: Garnish with extra parsley, serve warm, and enjoy your delightful creation!
Best ways to enjoy it
Shrimp Scampi Spaghetti is best served immediately while the flavors are fresh and vibrant. For an elegant touch, serve it on a large platter and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. A chilled glass of white wine complements it perfectly and encourages an inviting atmosphere.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), you can store shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. While freezing is possible, pasta tends to lose its texture, so consider storing the shrimp and sauce separately from the spaghetti.
Pro chef tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If the shrimp smells overly fishy, it’s a sign they are not fresh.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp; this will ensure they sear properly instead of steaming. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Reserve pasta water wisely! Adding some reserved cooking water not only helps bind the dish but also enhances the sauce’s flavor and texture.
Creative twists
To mix things up, consider experimenting with different ingredients. Swap out the shrimp for scallops or even chicken for a heartier meal. For a fresh spin, add in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. If you want a richer flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
Your questions answered
Q: What’s the prep time for this dish?
A: From start to finish, you can expect about 30 minutes for prep and cooking.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for reheating?
A: Absolutely! Just follow the reheating tips to keep the dish delicious.
Q: What’s the best type of white wine to use?
A: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well. These add a nice acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
