why make this recipe
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a dish that brings together fresh flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and buttery pasta creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, which is great for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 or 21-25 count)
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp grated lemon zest
- 1/2 lb spaghetti
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or added to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 large or 2 small lemons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 1/2 tbsp)
- 1 1/4 tsp fine sea salt, divided (plus more for cooking pasta)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (ground or to taste)
- Freshly grated parmesan to serve
Directions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1.5 tablespoons of butter and 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s just tender.
- Add the shrimp and season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. Drizzle with the remaining butter and olive oil. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan.
how to serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta can be served right from the skillet for a family-style dining experience. Plate individual servings and sprinkle extra parsley and parmesan cheese on top for a nice touch. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
how to store Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent dryness.
tips to make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
- For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp works too; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level to your liking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque when done for the best texture.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach. For a more substantial dish, consider mixing in cooked chicken or using a different type of pasta such as fettuccine or linguine.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of spaghetti.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, then heat and add the pasta just before serving.