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Easy Zesty Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Lemon and White Wine Perfect for Dinner

Easy Zesty Shrimp Scampi - featured image

A quick and flavorful shrimp scampi with a zesty lemon and white wine sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio preferred)
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Set aside. (5 minutes)
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil. Let the butter melt completely but do not let it brown. (2 minutes)
  3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir frequently and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Avoid burning the garlic. (1 minute)
  4. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook without moving for about 1.5 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until pink and opaque, about another 1.5 minutes. (3 minutes)
  5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen flavorful bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and meld flavors. (3 minutes)
  6. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce. (2 minutes)
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and toss gently. (30 seconds)
  8. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or with warm crusty bread. Add grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Simmer wine and lemon juice to reduce alcohol and concentrate flavors. Use a large pan to avoid overcrowding shrimp. If sauce is too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add more wine or pasta water. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, lemon shrimp, white wine shrimp, easy shrimp recipe, quick dinner, seafood pasta, garlic butter shrimp