Sensational Shrimp Scampi

• Melt the butter, mixing it with the olive oil in a large skillet
• Once the butter thoroughly melts, add the garlic, cooking for 1 minute
• Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side
• When the shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. If they start curling tight and turning wholly white, they are overdone and become rubbery.
• Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
• In the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of spiciness.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Cook for an additional minute to warm them through.
• Serve the shrimp scampi hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Variations on Scampi

• Shrimp scampi is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and additions you can consider:
• Pasta: Serve the shrimp scampi over your favorite type of pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. It adds more substance to the dish and soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Vegetables: Add a pop of color and nutrition by incorporating vegetables into your shrimp scampi. You can sauté vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach along with the shrimp for a well-rounded meal.
• Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can also sprinkle some dried Italian seasoning or add a pinch of smoked paprika for additional depth of flavor.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the cooked shrimp scampi just before serving. The cheese melts into the sauce and adds a delicious umami flavor.
• Lemon Zest: For a vibrant citrusy twist, grate some lemon zest over the cooked shrimp scampi. It adds a refreshing aroma and enhances the overall taste.
• Wine Variations: While classic shrimp scampi is made with white wine, you can experiment with different types of wine to create unique flavors. For example, try using a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, or substitute the white wine with a splash of dry vermouth or chicken broth.
• Butter Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter version, consider using a combination of olive oil and vegetable broth instead of butter. It reduces the richness without compromising on taste.
• Bread: Have crusty bread for dipping.
• Heat: If you enjoy some heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking. Adjust the spiciness according to your preference.