One Pan Shrimp Scampi: Effortless Elegance in a Skillet

Introduction

Hey there, food lovers! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I am thrilled to share with you my take on one pan shrimp scampi. This dish is not only a family favorite but also a perfect example of how cooking can be simple yet elegant. It’s a recipe that I often whip up when my six-year-old son and I want to enjoy quality time in the kitchen. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need for the best one pan shrimp scampi:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Timing

This one pan shrimp scampi takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Let’s break it down:

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these easy steps to create your own masterpiece:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 3: Add Shrimp

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. This is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, along with the lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, letting the flavors meld together. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss everything to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Isn’t that easy?

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is essential. Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on four servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sodium: 600mg

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, here are some substitutions to consider:

• Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or zucchini noodles.
• Use less butter and increase the olive oil for healthier fats.
• Consider adding more veggies, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This one pan shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with:

• A side salad with a light vinaigrette
• Crusty garlic bread for dipping
• A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making this dish, here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the shrimp can make them rubbery. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
• Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland noodles. Season it well!
• Forgetting to reserve the pasta water can result in a dry dish. Always save some!

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store them properly:

• Allow the shrimp scampi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to three days.
• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Cooking can be both delightful and effortless, just like this one pan shrimp scampi. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together and is perfect for any occasion. I hope you give it a try and create wonderful memories in the kitchen, just like I do with my son.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

What if I don’t have white wine?

No worries! You can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me in the kitchen today! I hope this one pan shrimp scampi becomes a staple in your home. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and creating experiences. Happy cooking from Recipes Cookery!

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