Lemon-Herb Shrimp Scampi – Fresh & Zesty Flavor Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, tangy notes and succulent seafood, then Lemon-Herb Shrimp Scampi – Fresh & Zesty Flavor is your perfect go-to. This classic seafood pasta combines the vibrant essence of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the tender bite of shrimp in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing. It’s a meal that can elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a weekend gathering with minimal effort.

I’ve always been drawn to the simplicity of shrimp scampi recipes. They’re quick to whip up, yet the flavors are anything but basic. The zesty lemon sauce paired with a rich garlic sauce creates a balance that dances on your taste buds, while fresh herbs add that final touch of elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into shrimp recipes easy enough for beginners, this dish promises to deliver.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to create a flawless lemon garlic shrimp pasta. From selecting the best ingredients to mastering the timing, you’ll have a plate of this delightful seafood pasta ready in no time. Let’s dive into the world of vibrant flavors and easy cooking!

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’re in for with this shrimp scampi recipe:

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Category: Main Dish, Seafood Pasta
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

What You’ll Need

Creating a standout lemon butter shrimp dish starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters in this garlic shrimp pasta:

• Shrimp: The star of the dish, providing a tender, juicy texture. Opt for fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined for ease.
• Lemon: Adds the signature zesty brightness to the lemon sauce, cutting through the richness of butter and garlic.
• Garlic: A key flavor builder, offering a warm, aromatic depth to the garlic sauce.
• Butter and Olive Oil: These fats create a silky base for the sauce while enhancing the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil brings a burst of color and freshness to balance the dish.
• Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works best, acting as a vehicle to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• White Wine (optional): Adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the lemon garlic pasta.

INGREDIENTS

• – 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• – 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• – 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• – 2 tbsp olive oil
• – 4 cloves garlic, minced
• – 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, substitute with chicken broth)
• – Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tbsp)
• – Zest of 1 lemon
• – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• – 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• – Salt and pepper to taste
• – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

PREPARATION

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Stir until the butter melts and coats the shrimp in the lemon butter sauce, about 1 minute.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Cook for 1 minute to meld the flavors.
8. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and serve immediately with a dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

(Values are approximate and based on a serving size of 1/4 of the recipe.)

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

When preparing shrimp recipes like this shrimp scampi, avoid overcooking by watching for the shrimp to turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so err on the side of undercooking slightly—they’ll finish in the sauce.

Choosing the Right Pasta

For lemon garlic pasta, long, thin noodles like spaghetti or linguine are ideal. They twirl beautifully around your fork and hold onto the garlic sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.

Balancing Lemon and Garlic Flavors

The key to a great lemon sauce is balance. Taste as you go—add more lemon juice for brightness or an extra garlic clove for depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish without overpowering it.

Healthier Substitutions

For a lighter take on this healthy recipe, swap half the butter for additional olive oil and use whole wheat pasta. You’ll still enjoy the essence of lemon butter shrimp with fewer calories.

Pairing Suggestions

This seafood pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus. A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the lemon garlic shrimp pasta perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, as microwaving can toughen the shrimp.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just as well for this shrimp scampi recipe. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or run under cold water for a few minutes before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess water diluting the garlic sauce.

Is there a substitute for white wine?

Yes, if you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It still adds depth to the lemon sauce without the alcohol, keeping the dish family-friendly.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version of this lemon garlic shrimp pasta, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Toss in veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini during the last step of cooking. They’ll add color, nutrition, and texture to your seafood pasta.

Savor the bright, tangy notes of Lemon-Herb Shrimp Scampi tonight!