Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Introduction

Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo is the kind of dish that feels like a trip to a seaside trattoria, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Delicate angel hair pasta serves as the perfect canvas for tender shrimp bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley. It’s a dish that combines elegance with simplicity, making it equally suitable for a casual weeknight dinner or an intimate celebration.

What I love about Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo is how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor. A handful of fresh ingredients—plump shrimp, fragrant garlic, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of parsley—create a symphony of tastes that’s as comforting as it is impressive. The angel hair pasta cooks in mere minutes, and the shrimp are ready in a flash, making this a go-to recipe for when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

I remember making this dish for a dinner party once, and the entire table was silent as everyone took their first bites—that’s how you know it’s a winner. The best part is that it’s so versatile. You can add a hint of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, swap parsley for fresh basil for a slightly different flavor, or even use zucchini noodles for a lighter twist. Serve it with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and you’ve got a meal that will transport you straight to the Italian coast.

Perfect for:

• Date nights
• Weeknight dinners
• Dinner parties
• Seafood lovers
• Quick and elegant meals

Why You’ll Love This Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Here’s why Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo deserves a spot on your table:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or when you want a quick yet sophisticated meal.
• Bursting with Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh shrimp, lemon, garlic, and parsley creates a vibrant and flavorful dish.
• Elegant Yet Simple: With its restaurant-quality presentation, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
• Light and Comforting: The delicate angel hair pasta perfectly complements the rich and buttery scampi sauce, making it satisfying without being heavy.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish always feels special.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo:

• 12 oz angel hair pasta (capelli d’angelo)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Angel Hair Pasta: Its delicate texture cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the light scampi sauce.
• Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and presentation.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the butter.
• Garlic: A key ingredient that infuses the sauce with a bold and savory aroma.
• Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of these fats creates a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Scampi Sauce:

3. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
4. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Build the Sauce:

6. Deglaze the Pan: Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then return the shrimp to the skillet.

Combine and Serve:

8. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped parsley. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
9. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired.

How to Serve Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo can be served in several delightful ways:

1. As a Main Dish: Serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
2. With a Salad: Pair with a fresh arugula or Caesar salad for a complete meal.
3. Family-Style: Serve in a large bowl for a communal dining experience.
4. For Date Nights: Plate individually for a romantic and elegant presentation.
5. With Wine Pairings: Accompany with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option.

Additional Tips for Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Here are some tips to ensure your Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Keep Pasta Warm: Tossing the pasta immediately with the sauce helps it absorb the flavors better.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

Recipe Variations for Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Try these 10 variations to customize Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo to your taste:

1. Creamy Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
2. Vegetarian Scampi: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Swap angel hair pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
4. Cajun Scampi: Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy, Southern-inspired twist.
5. Tomato Scampi: Toss in cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
6. Bacon Scampi: Add crumbled turkey bacon for a smoky flavor.
7. Herb-Infused Scampi: Use basil or dill in addition to parsley for more herbaceous notes.
8. Garlic-Lover’s Scampi: Double the garlic for a more robust flavor.
9. Lobster Scampi: Replace shrimp with lobster tails for a luxurious version.
10. Lemon-Caper Scampi: Add capers for a tangy, briny element.

Freezing and Storage for Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

• Freezing: While freshly cooked Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo is best, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Special Equipment for Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

Here are some tools to make this recipe even easier:

1. Large Pot: Essential for cooking the angel hair pasta.
2. Large Skillet: Perfect for preparing the scampi sauce and tossing the pasta.
3. Microplane Zester: Great for zesting lemons finely.
4. Tongs: Helps to toss and coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
5. Garlic Press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
6. Fine Mesh Strainer: Useful for reserving pasta water without any pasta bits.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements of liquids and seasonings.
8. Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and deglazing the pan.
9. Parmesan Grater: For fresh Parmesan cheese garnish.
10. Serving Bowl: A large bowl for a family-style presentation.

FAQ Section for Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
2. Can I substitute another pasta?
   Absolutely! Linguine or spaghetti works well if you don’t have angel hair pasta.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
   Toss it with a little olive oil after draining, especially if you’re not adding it to the sauce immediately.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
5. What can I use instead of wine?
   Use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic alternative.

Print

Conclusion

Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo is the epitome of simple elegance, bringing together tender shrimp, delicate angel hair pasta, and a light, flavorful sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs. This dish is a beautiful celebration of Italian-inspired flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for any occasion. From casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings, it offers a taste of refinement with minimal effort.

The combination of fresh shrimp and the thin, tender strands of pasta ensures a harmonious blend of textures, while the bright citrus notes and a hint of butter elevate the dish to restaurant-quality perfection. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own or alongside a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a crisp white wine alternative, ensuring a well-rounded meal that satisfies every palate.

Try Scampi con Capelli d’Angelo in your own kitchen and discover how easy it is to create something truly exceptional. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece—snap a photo, tag me on Instagram, and let me know how it turned out. Buon appetito!