Shrimp Scampi with Garlic, Lemon, and Pasta
A light yet luxurious Italian-American classic ready in under 30 minutes!

Description:
This shrimp scampi recipe is a weeknight winner—tender shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce, tossed with pasta and finished with a touch of parsley and parmesan. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and irresistibly elegant!

Ingredients:

For the pasta:

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
• Salt for boiling water

For the shrimp scampi:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or pasta water
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Grated parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the shrimp:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the scampi sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth (or pasta water). Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Combine everything:
   Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well combined. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Finish and serve:
   Stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated parmesan, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery if left too long on heat.
• For extra richness, add a splash of cream at the end.
• Substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.