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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by on July 9, 2025

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Craving a dish that’s bursty with flavor yet easy to make? Look no further! In this blog post, I’ll guide you through creating a mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method, you’ll impress friends and family in no time. Get ready to elevate your dinner game as we dive into this tasty recipe that balances vibrant lemon and rich garlic with plump shrimp. Let’s get cooking!

To make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, you will need the following ingredients: - Large shrimp (1 pound) - Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) - Olive oil (2 tablespoons) - Garlic (4 cloves, minced) - Lemons (2, zested and juiced) - Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, adjust per heat preference) - Salt and pepper (to taste) - Linguine or spaghetti (8 ounces) - Fresh parsley (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The shrimp provide a sweet and tender bite. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil ensures a nice sauté. Garlic gives a savory depth that pairs well with the bright lemon. Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, making it fresh and zesty. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Salt and pepper help enhance all the flavors. Linguine or spaghetti serves as the perfect base, soaking up the sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Lastly, Parmesan cheese can add a delightful savory layer, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant and tasty meal that’s easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. - Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti. - Cook according to package directions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. - Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. - In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. - Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. - Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells great. Be careful not to burn it. - Add 1 pound of shrimp, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. - Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. - Once the shrimp are cooked, add the zest and juice of 2 lemons to the skillet. - Stir to mix everything well. If it seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. - Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the lemon garlic sauce. - Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts. Adjust the seasoning if needed. To cook shrimp perfectly, look for a pink color. Shrimp cook fast, so watch them closely. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. If you overcook shrimp, they can get tough and rubbery. For great flavor, season them well with salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick. The lemon juice will also bring out the shrimp's taste. To achieve al dente pasta, cook it for a shorter time than the package says. Start checking it a minute or two early. You want it to be firm but not hard. Always reserve pasta water before you drain it. This water is starchy and can help bind your sauce later. If the sauce needs some thinning, add a splash of the reserved water. Pair Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi with a crisp salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds nice crunch and balance. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Use lemon slices as a pretty garnish, too. This dish looks great on any table! Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture in your dish. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Just be careful not to burn it while sautéing. Perfect Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the shrimp and sauce. Lemon Zest is Key: Don't skip the lemon zest! It adds a bright, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish significantly. {{image_2}} You can easily swap shrimp for chicken if you prefer. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook it the same way you do with shrimp. If you want to try different pasta, you can use penne or fettuccine instead of linguine. Each type brings its own feel to the dish. Adding fresh herbs can really boost the taste. Consider using basil or thyme for a fresh twist. You can also add spinach or cherry tomatoes for some color and nutrition. Just toss them in with the shrimp to cook until tender. If you're gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options. Many brands make great alternatives. For a low-fat version, you can cut the butter in half and use more olive oil. This still keeps the dish tasty without the extra fat. To keep your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi fresh, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. The leftovers will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to check for any off smells before eating. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the dish evenly. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short intervals to maintain the flavor and texture. If you want to freeze it, portion the dish first. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. Shrimp scampi can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place it in cold water. Avoid using hot water, as this can cook the shrimp. Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi takes about 25 minutes in total. You will spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients. The cooking part takes about 15 minutes. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. If you choose frozen, thaw them first. To thaw shrimp, place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep their texture nice. Fresh shrimp have a better taste, but frozen works well too. There are many great sides to pair with your dish. Here are a few ideas: - Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. - A fresh salad with greens and a light dressing. - Steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch. - Rice or quinoa to soak up that zesty sauce. These options will enhance your meal and keep it light and tasty! This blog post covered making a tasty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips to make it perfect. I shared ideas for variations and storage tips too. Remember, cooking is fun and a great way to experiment. Feel free to switch ingredients based on what you like. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Flavorful: This dish bursts with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, making it a refreshing choice for any meal.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
  3. Customizable Heat: The red pepper flakes allow you to adjust the spice level according to your preference, making it suitable for everyone.
  4. Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan, this dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for entertaining!

Ingredients

To make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, you will need the following ingredients:

– Large shrimp (1 pound)

– Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)

– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

– Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

– Lemons (2, zested and juiced)

– Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, adjust per heat preference)

– Salt and pepper (to taste)

– Linguine or spaghetti (8 ounces)

– Fresh parsley (for garnish)

– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The shrimp provide a sweet and tender bite. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil ensures a nice sauté. Garlic gives a savory depth that pairs well with the bright lemon.

Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, making it fresh and zesty. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Salt and pepper help enhance all the flavors. Linguine or spaghetti serves as the perfect base, soaking up the sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Lastly, Parmesan cheese can add a delightful savory layer, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.

These ingredients combine to create a vibrant and tasty meal that’s easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.

– Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti.

– Cook according to package directions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente.

– Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sautéing the Garlic and Shrimp

– In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

– Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic.

– Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells great. Be careful not to burn it.

– Add 1 pound of shrimp, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.

– Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Final Assembly

– Once the shrimp are cooked, add the zest and juice of 2 lemons to the skillet.

– Stir to mix everything well. If it seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water.

– Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the lemon garlic sauce.

– Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Shrimp

To cook shrimp perfectly, look for a pink color. Shrimp cook fast, so watch them closely. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. If you overcook shrimp, they can get tough and rubbery. For great flavor, season them well with salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick. The lemon juice will also bring out the shrimp’s taste.

Pasta Cooking Tips

To achieve al dente pasta, cook it for a shorter time than the package says. Start checking it a minute or two early. You want it to be firm but not hard. Always reserve pasta water before you drain it. This water is starchy and can help bind your sauce later. If the sauce needs some thinning, add a splash of the reserved water.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi with a crisp salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds nice crunch and balance. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Use lemon slices as a pretty garnish, too. This dish looks great on any table!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture in your dish. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
  2. Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Just be careful not to burn it while sautéing.
  3. Perfect Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the shrimp and sauce.
  4. Lemon Zest is Key: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds a bright, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish significantly.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily swap shrimp for chicken if you prefer. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook it the same way you do with shrimp. If you want to try different pasta, you can use penne or fettuccine instead of linguine. Each type brings its own feel to the dish.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding fresh herbs can really boost the taste. Consider using basil or thyme for a fresh twist. You can also add spinach or cherry tomatoes for some color and nutrition. Just toss them in with the shrimp to cook until tender.

Dietary Modifications

If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options. Many brands make great alternatives. For a low-fat version, you can cut the butter in half and use more olive oil. This still keeps the dish tasty without the extra fat.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi fresh, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. The leftovers will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to check for any off smells before eating.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the dish evenly. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short intervals to maintain the flavor and texture.

Freezing Shrimp Scampi

If you want to freeze it, portion the dish first. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. Shrimp scampi can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place it in cold water. Avoid using hot water, as this can cook the shrimp.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi?

Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi takes about 25 minutes in total. You will spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients. The cooking part takes about 15 minutes.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. If you choose frozen, thaw them first. To thaw shrimp, place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep their texture nice. Fresh shrimp have a better taste, but frozen works well too.

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi?

There are many great sides to pair with your dish. Here are a few ideas:

– Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce.

– A fresh salad with greens and a light dressing.

– Steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch.

– Rice or quinoa to soak up that zesty sauce.

These options will enhance your meal and keep it light and tasty!

This blog post covered making a tasty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips to make it perfect. I shared ideas for variations and storage tips too. Remember, cooking is fun and a great way to experiment. Feel free to switch ingredients based on what you like. Enjoy your meal and happy cookin

To make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi, you will need the following ingredients: - Large shrimp (1 pound) - Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) - Olive oil (2 tablespoons) - Garlic (4 cloves, minced) - Lemons (2, zested and juiced) - Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, adjust per heat preference) - Salt and pepper (to taste) - Linguine or spaghetti (8 ounces) - Fresh parsley (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The shrimp provide a sweet and tender bite. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil ensures a nice sauté. Garlic gives a savory depth that pairs well with the bright lemon. Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, making it fresh and zesty. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Salt and pepper help enhance all the flavors. Linguine or spaghetti serves as the perfect base, soaking up the sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Lastly, Parmesan cheese can add a delightful savory layer, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant and tasty meal that’s easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. - Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti. - Cook according to package directions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. - Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. - In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. - Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. - Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells great. Be careful not to burn it. - Add 1 pound of shrimp, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. - Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. - Once the shrimp are cooked, add the zest and juice of 2 lemons to the skillet. - Stir to mix everything well. If it seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. - Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the lemon garlic sauce. - Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts. Adjust the seasoning if needed. To cook shrimp perfectly, look for a pink color. Shrimp cook fast, so watch them closely. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. If you overcook shrimp, they can get tough and rubbery. For great flavor, season them well with salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick. The lemon juice will also bring out the shrimp's taste. To achieve al dente pasta, cook it for a shorter time than the package says. Start checking it a minute or two early. You want it to be firm but not hard. Always reserve pasta water before you drain it. This water is starchy and can help bind your sauce later. If the sauce needs some thinning, add a splash of the reserved water. Pair Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi with a crisp salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds nice crunch and balance. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Use lemon slices as a pretty garnish, too. This dish looks great on any table! Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture in your dish. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Just be careful not to burn it while sautéing. Perfect Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the shrimp and sauce. Lemon Zest is Key: Don't skip the lemon zest! It adds a bright, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish significantly. {{image_2}} You can easily swap shrimp for chicken if you prefer. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook it the same way you do with shrimp. If you want to try different pasta, you can use penne or fettuccine instead of linguine. Each type brings its own feel to the dish. Adding fresh herbs can really boost the taste. Consider using basil or thyme for a fresh twist. You can also add spinach or cherry tomatoes for some color and nutrition. Just toss them in with the shrimp to cook until tender. If you're gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options. Many brands make great alternatives. For a low-fat version, you can cut the butter in half and use more olive oil. This still keeps the dish tasty without the extra fat. To keep your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi fresh, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. The leftovers will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to check for any off smells before eating. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the dish evenly. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short intervals to maintain the flavor and texture. If you want to freeze it, portion the dish first. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. Shrimp scampi can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place it in cold water. Avoid using hot water, as this can cook the shrimp. Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi takes about 25 minutes in total. You will spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients. The cooking part takes about 15 minutes. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. If you choose frozen, thaw them first. To thaw shrimp, place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep their texture nice. Fresh shrimp have a better taste, but frozen works well too. There are many great sides to pair with your dish. Here are a few ideas: - Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. - A fresh salad with greens and a light dressing. - Steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch. - Rice or quinoa to soak up that zesty sauce. These options will enhance your meal and keep it light and tasty! This blog post covered making a tasty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips to make it perfect. I shared ideas for variations and storage tips too. Remember, cooking is fun and a great way to experiment. Feel free to switch ingredients based on what you like. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

A delicious shrimp scampi dish with a zesty lemon and garlic flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lemons zest and juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped
  • optional grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Stir in the shrimp, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  • Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. If the mixture seems too dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat it in the lemon garlic sauce. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Plate the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi in bowls or on plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference.
Keyword garlic, lemon, pasta, scampi, shrimp

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