Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi

Introduction

Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi is an absolutely delightful dish that brings the ocean’s flavors straight to your table. Imagine succulent shrimp glistening in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that wraps around your senses, creating a perfect balance of comfort and elegance. It’s a dish that captures the heart of traditional Italian scampi but with a fresh, modern flair that makes it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting a sophisticated gathering.

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs—think parsley and basil—combined with the zesty brightness of lemon elevate the dish to new heights. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also makes for a stunning presentation. The golden shrimp against a backdrop of fresh herbs and a splash of citrus is visually impressive!

What I find particularly appealing is how quick and easy it is to whip up. On those busy weeknights when you want to put something delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe comes to the rescue. Just sauté the shrimp with garlic, add a splash of white wine, toss in some herbs, and you’re done! It pairs beautifully with al dente pasta or a crusty loaf of bread, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that irresistible sauce.

Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen, leaving your family and friends wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why you’ll love Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi:

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich and satisfying sauce.
• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Elegant Presentation: The bright colors of the shrimp and parsley make for a stunning dish.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Fresh Ingredients: Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of garlic and spice to your preference.
• Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Leftover Friendly: Shrimp scampi is delicious even the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Healthy Option: Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making this dish a lighter choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors, it appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 420 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 24g, Carbohydrates: 26g, Protein: 26g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi:

For the Shrimp Scampi

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving

• Cooked linguine or spaghetti
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Shrimp: Using large, fresh shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor.
• Garlic and Lemon: These ingredients add brightness and depth to the dish.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of both creates a rich, velvety sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi:

Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Prepare the Shrimp Scampi

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink.
4. Add Wine: Pour in the white wine (if using) and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.
5. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water as needed.
7. Finish with Parsley: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the shrimp scampi over the pasta, garnished with lemon wedges and additional parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Here are some serving suggestions for Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi:

• Serve with Pasta: Place the shrimp scampi over a bed of linguine or spaghetti.
• Accompany with Crusty Bread: Offer garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Garnish with Lemon: Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus.
• Sprinkle Extra Parsley: Top with additional chopped parsley for a burst of color.
• Pair with Salad: Serve with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the dish.
• Make it a Meal: Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus.
• Serve Family Style: Present in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves.
• Top with Parmesan: For cheese lovers, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
• Use in Tacos: Transform leftovers into shrimp tacos with slaw and avocado.

Additional Tips

Maximize your cooking success with these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Use Good Olive Oil: A quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter in advance and add shrimp before serving.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, include vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

Try these creative variations for your Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi:

• Lemon Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill to the sauce for a bright, refreshing flavor.
• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Creamy Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Vegetable-Packed Scampi: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
• White Wine Alternative: Replace white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version while maintaining flavor.
• Coconut Shrimp Scampi: Use coconut milk instead of butter for a tropical twist and a hint of sweetness.
• Pasta Swap: Substitute angel hair pasta with fettuccine, linguine, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
• Herbed Butter Variation: Infuse the butter with garlic and herbs (like thyme or rosemary) before adding the shrimp for extra depth.
• Asian-Inspired Scampi: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for an Asian twist on the classic dish.
• Cheesy Scampi: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the dish before serving for added richness.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Ina Garten Shrimp Scampi fresh with these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as shrimp may become rubbery when thawed.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Avoid Microwaving: Avoid using the microwave for reheating to maintain texture.

Special Equipment

Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi:

• Large Skillet: Essential for sautéing the shrimp and preparing the sauce evenly.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: A large pot to cook the angel hair pasta until al dente.
• Colander: To drain the pasta after boiling, ensuring it’s not overcooked.
• Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, wine, and lemon juice.
• Measuring Spoons: Useful for precise measurements of spices and seasonings.
• Garlic Press: To easily crush garlic cloves, releasing their flavor efficiently.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce and ensuring even cooking without scratching your skillet.
• Zester or Grater: For zesting lemons to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping shrimp and mixing the pasta with the sauce without breaking the strands.
• Serving Platter: A beautiful platter for presenting the shrimp scampi, making it visually appealing for serving.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions about making Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi:

• Can I use frozen shrimp?
  Yes, just thaw them before cooking for the best texture.
• What type of pasta should I use?
  Linguine is traditional, but any pasta shape will work.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance.
• Is there a substitute for white wine?
  Yes, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used instead.
• How do I know when shrimp are done?
  Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
• Can I use other seafood?
  Yes, you can mix in scallops or crab for a seafood medley.
• What can I do with leftovers?
  Use them in pasta salad or tacos, or reheat gently.
• How spicy is this dish?
  The spice level can be adjusted by varying the red pepper flakes.
• Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
  Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• How should I serve this dish?
  Serve over pasta with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side.

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Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients for an exquisite meal. The combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter, and zesty lemon creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and elegant. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this shrimp scampi is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. Serve it over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or with a fresh salad for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I can’t wait to see how your Shrimp Scampi turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations!