Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Introduction

Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi is the perfect marriage of Japanese-inspired flavors and a beloved Italian classic. Succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious miso-infused garlic butter sauce make this dish irresistible, especially when paired with perfectly cooked pasta or zoodles. The miso adds an umami-packed depth to the dish, elevating the traditional scampi to new culinary heights.

I first discovered this fusion twist when experimenting with miso in my pantry and a sudden craving for shrimp scampi. The result was magic: a dish that’s rich, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent. What makes it even better is how quick and easy it is to prepare. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

It’s also incredibly versatile—add some vegetables like asparagus or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition, or swap out the pasta for zoodles if you’re in the mood for something lighter. This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially when I want something that feels gourmet but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi will deliver bold, unforgettable flavors every time.

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Entertaining guests
• Seafood lovers
• Light yet satisfying meals
• Asian-inspired fusion cuisine

Why You’ll Love This Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Here’s why Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi will become a staple in your meal rotation:

• Unique Flavor Fusion: The savory depth of miso paired with garlic butter creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• One-Pan Recipe: Minimal cleanup is needed, as the entire dish is cooked in just one skillet.
• Healthy and Versatile: You can enjoy it with pasta, rice, or zoodles, making it adaptable to various dietary needs.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Despite its ease of preparation, this dish looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 oz spaghetti, linguine, or zoodles (optional, for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

• Miso Paste: Adds depth and an umami punch, elevating the flavor profile of the scampi.
• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they’re deveined for ease.
• Garlic and Butter: The classic base of any scampi, bringing rich, aromatic flavors to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami and complements the miso.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity that balances the rich flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi:

Cook the Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Miso Paste: Stir in the miso paste until dissolved, ensuring it blends evenly with the oil and garlic.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.

Combine and Serve:

6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the red pepper flakes if using.
7. Return the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce.
8. Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining butter to create a glossy, rich finish.
9. Serve: Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked pasta, zoodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi is versatile and can be served in several ways:

• Over Pasta: Serve atop spaghetti or linguine for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• With Zoodles: For a lighter, low-carb option, toss the shrimp and sauce with zucchini noodles.
• As a Rice Bowl: Spoon the shrimp and sauce over steamed jasmine rice for an Asian-inspired bowl.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich miso-garlic sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp and sauce in small bowls with toothpicks for dipping.

Additional Tips for Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Here are some tips to make your Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi flawless:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
• Adjust the Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley elevate the flavors and make a big difference in taste.
• Save Pasta Water: If serving with pasta, save some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter.

Recipe Variations for Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Try these 10 variations of Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi to switch things up:

• Spicy Miso Scampi: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Miso Butter Scampi: Use compound miso butter instead of plain miso paste for an extra creamy sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based option.
• Citrus Twist: Incorporate lime juice and zest for a tangy, citrusy variation.
• Ginger Miso Scampi: Add grated fresh ginger for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Miso Cream Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to create a rich, creamy sauce.
• Miso Coconut Scampi: Substitute coconut milk for broth for a tropical flair.
• Miso Salmon Scampi: Swap shrimp for salmon chunks for a heartier seafood option.
• Garlic-Free Version: Use shallots instead of garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
• Gluten-Free Scampi: Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Miso shrimp scampi can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the sauce separately from the shrimp. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Special Equipment for Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

Here are 10 tools to make preparing your Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi a breeze:

• Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the shrimp and sauce.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the shrimp and tossing the pasta.
• Microplane Zester: Ideal for grating garlic or lemon zest.
• Garlic Press: Speeds up the process of mincing garlic.
• Whisk: Ensures the miso paste is evenly blended into the sauce.
• Colander: Useful for draining pasta or zoodles.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for deglazing the pan and mixing the sauce.
• Serving Platter: For presenting the scampi beautifully.
• Citrus Juicer: Makes extracting fresh lemon juice easy.
• Pasta Pot: If serving with pasta, a large pot for boiling is essential.

FAQ Section for Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, just thaw them in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.
2. What type of miso paste should I use?
   White miso is recommended for its mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the shrimp.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce components and shrimp ahead of time.
4. What’s a good side dish for this recipe?
   A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pairs well with this dish.
5. Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
   Yes, scallops or chunks of fish are great alternatives.
6. Is this dish spicy?
   Only if you add the optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
7. Can I omit the butter?
   Yes, use olive oil exclusively for a dairy-free version.
8. What pasta works best with this recipe?
   Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair are excellent choices, but any long pasta will do.
9. How can I thicken the sauce?
   Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it or add a touch of cornstarch slurry.
10. Can I add vegetables?
    Absolutely! Asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would complement the dish beautifully.

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Conclusion

Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi brings a gourmet twist to your dinner table with its irresistible blend of miso and garlic butter. This flavor-packed dish combines tender, juicy shrimp with a rich, umami-filled sauce, making it perfect for seafood lovers and weeknight meals alike. In just minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare.

Serve this versatile recipe over pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every drop of the savory sauce. With its quick cooking time and bold flavors, it’s destined to become a favorite in your meal rotation. You can even customize it by adding veggies or spice for a personal touch.

I’d love to see how you make this dish your own! Share your Easy Miso Shrimp Scampi creations by tagging me on Instagram or leaving a comment below. Let’s celebrate this delicious recipe together—bon appétit!