Best Quick Shrimp Scampi

Discovering a Hawaiian-Italian Twist

My Favorite is Quick Shrimp Scampi and I remember the first time I tasted shrimp scampi; it was during a summer trip to Hawaii. The vibrant island flavors left a lasting impression on me. The combination of fresh seafood, zesty citrus, and the subtle hint of garlic was unforgettable. Inspired by the Hawaiian cuisine, I wanted to create a dish that captured that same burst of flavors but with a twist that made it my own. That’s when I came up with the idea for Quick Shrimp Scampi. It’s a blend of Italian tradition and Hawaiian zest, perfect for those busy nights when you want something special but don’t have much time.

The Simplicity of Fresh Ingredients

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet. The marinade, made with olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, and garlic, is the heart of this dish. It’s amazing how these simple ingredients can transform shrimp into something so flavorful. When I prepare this, I can almost smell the ocean breeze and feel the warmth of the Hawaiian sun. It’s a quick escape to the islands, right in my kitchen.

Cooking to Perfection

The key to this recipe is not overcooking the shrimp. I’ve learned that patience is important when cooking seafood. The shrimp only need a few minutes on each side to turn pink and tender. Adding the butter at the end makes the sauce rich and velvety, while the parsley brings a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness. Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of how easy it is to create something delicious with just a few good ingredients and a little bit of love.

A Family Favorite

Quick Shrimp Scampi has become a staple in my household. It’s the dish I turn to when I want to impress without the stress. My family loves it, especially when served over a bed of fluffy rice or al dente pasta. It’s satisfying and light at the same time, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special date night at home. This recipe isn’t just about the food; it’s about bringing a bit of the islands into our everyday lives, reminding us to savor each bite and enjoy the simple pleasures.

Chef’s Notes-Quick Shrimp Scampi

• Use the freshest shrimp you can find. Fresh shrimp will have a clean, ocean-like smell and firm texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.
• While the recipe calls for a minimum of 15 minutes, marinating the shrimp for up to 30 minutes can intensify the flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the shrimp.
• Shrimp cook very quickly—2-3 minutes per side is usually enough. Overcooking them will result in a tough, rubbery texture. Keep a close eye on them as they cook, and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• If avoiding alcohol, chicken broth is a great alternative. For a richer flavor, use a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
• Adding the butter at the end gives the scampi a rich, velvety finish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a light butter alternative.

Quick Shrimp Scampi

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Hawaiian, ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Dive into the flavors of the ocean with this Quick Shrimp Scampi recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a robust garlic and lemon marinade, creating a gourmet meal in less than 30 minutes. Inspired by the vibrant tastes of Hawaiian cuisine, this scampi is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Marinade

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 cup dry white wine

• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Scampi

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Lemon wedges for serving

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil.

• White Wine: Substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

• Butter: Use dairy-free margarine for a dairy-free option.

• Shrimp: Substitute with scallops or chicken breast pieces.

Directions

• Marinade Preparation – In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
• Marinate the Shrimp – Place the shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Cook the Shrimp – Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp along with the marinade to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
• Serve – Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately over rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• nonstick pan
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 320kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Potassium: 220mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Vitamin A: 10IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Calcium: 8mg
• Iron: 15mg

FAQ-Quick Shrimp Scampi

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the shrimp absorb the marinade better.

What can I serve with shrimp scampi?

Shrimp scampi pairs well with pasta or rice. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-lemon sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make for great side dishes too.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or a splash of olive oil. The dish will still be delicious and creamy.

What if I don’t have white wine on hand?

You can substitute white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth. If you want to add a bit of acidity, try adding a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar along with the broth.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. If you cook them too long, they can become tough and rubbery, so be sure to watch them closely and remove them from heat as soon as they change color.