Romantic Shrimp Scampi

Name: Romantic Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love cooking romantic dinners that feel special without being overly complicated, and this shrimp scampi has become a staple in our home. It’s bursting with flavors from fresh garlic, buttery goodness, and a hint of lemon that transports us to a seaside café. The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether it’s a date night or a cozy dinner at home, this dish always brings a touch of elegance to the table.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:58:11.143Z

When I first tried making shrimp scampi at home, I was surprised at how simple yet impressive it turned out. The combination of sautéed garlic and shrimp tossed with perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that feels gourmet. I love adding a splash of white wine for that extra depth of flavor, and it pairs beautifully with the freshness of lemon juice.

One tip I found essential is to ensure your shrimp are not overcooked; they should be tender and juicy. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch. Bring out a bottle of chilled white wine, and it’s the perfect romantic evening.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously buttery and garlicky shrimp that melt in your mouth
Quick and easy preparation for a last-minute romantic dinner
A splash of white wine gives it a restaurant-quality feel

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When preparing shrimp scampi, the quality of your ingredients makes a significant difference in the final dish. Fresh shrimp, ideally wild-caught, have a sweeter, more pronounced flavor compared to frozen varieties. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess water diluting the sauce. Fresh garlic is also key; the pungent aroma transforms as it cooks, creating a fragrant base for the dish that's second to none.

Don't overlook the role of olive oil and butter in this recipe; they are integral to achieving that luxurious, silky sauce. A higher-quality extra virgin olive oil can contribute fruity notes that complement the seafood beautifully, while the butter adds richness. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try flavored olive oils, such as garlic or lemon-infused, for an added layer of complexity.

Perfecting Your Technique

Timing is crucial in this recipe since both the pasta and the shrimp need to be cooked perfectly. It's best to start boiling your water for pasta as soon as you begin preparing the shrimp. This will allow everything to come together seamlessly. When sautéing the shrimp, make sure the skillet is hot enough; you should hear a sizzle when the shrimp hit the pan. Cooking them for too long can lead to a rubbery texture; aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

One common pitfall is overcooking the garlic. Remove it from the heat if it starts to brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish. To incorporate the pasta smoothly, I often reserve more than just a cup of pasta water—it’s helpful to have an extra measure on standby in case your sauce needs a bit more liquid to become glossy and coat the pasta effectively.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful shrimp scampi:

Ingredients

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook for an easy flow.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your shrimp scampi:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine Pasta and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your shrimp scampi, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens will contrast the buttery richness of the scampi, offering a refreshing complement to the meal. You can also add crusty bread on the side for sopping up any leftover sauce—trust me, you won't want to waste a drop.

For a more upscale presentation, plate the scampi on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside steamed asparagus. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat and color, making the dish look as good as it tastes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. For example, you can clean and devein the shrimp the day before and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Mince the garlic in advance as well; just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its flavor and aroma.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or wine can help revive the sauce, making it creamy again. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the shrimp will suffer when thawed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before using.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Linguine or spaghetti are traditional, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Yes, you can use all olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

They will turn pink and opaque; overcooking will make them tough.