This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a restaurant-quality dish that brings the flavors of the sea straight to your kitchen. Featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic wine sauce, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. The combination of white wine, fresh lemon juice, and Italian seasoning creates a perfectly balanced sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is ideal for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended)
- ½ fresh lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup softened butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Add shrimp and cook until tender and no longer translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- Reduce heat to medium and add finely chopped garlic to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Do not allow the garlic to brown, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
- Pour in white wine and fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Allow the mixture to simmer until the wine reduces by half, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Butter
- Reduce heat to low and add softened butter, stirring continuously until fully melted.
- If the pan is too hot, the butter may separate, so keep the heat gentle.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and let it melt slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the shrimp scampi over linguine, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi:
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Choose a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a balanced sauce.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Pair with garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.
This dish is simple, elegant, and packed with flavor—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home! 🍤🍷
Would you like variations or additional serving ideas? 😊