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Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti

Introduction

Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is a wonderfully vibrant pasta dish combining tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, zesty lemon, and silky butter. It’s beloved for its simplicity, quick cooking time, and luxurious flavor profile. Whether prepared for a weeknight treat or a special dinner, it always brings an irresistible aroma to the table.

Origin

While shrimp scampi is inspired by Italian culinary traditions, the dish as known today is largely an Italian-American creation. Traditionally, “scampi” refers to a type of crustacean (langoustines). Italian immigrants in the U.S. adapted the recipe using shrimp, pairing them with garlic, butter, white wine, and pasta.

Cultural Significance

Shrimp Scampi has become a restaurant staple in the United States, representing the blend of Italian flavors with American indulgence. It symbolizes comfort, easy elegance, and shared meals. Its versatility makes it a signature weeknight and celebration dish alike.

Ingredients Quantity

Servings: 4

For the Pasta & Shrimp

12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but recommended)
½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving

Extra lemon wedges
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)

Optional Additions

Cherry tomatoes for sweetness
Spinach for greens
Capers for briny flavor
Crushed garlic confit for deeper richness
A splash of cream for a velvety sauce
Bread crumbs toasted in butter for crunch

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the shrimp—90 seconds per side is perfect.
Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled, for brighter flavor.
Let the wine simmer to reduce and concentrate flavor.
Salt your pasta water generously to ensure balanced taste.
Add the pasta directly into the sauce to help it absorb flavors.

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti
Boil water with salt, cook spaghetti until al dente, then reserve ½ cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Build the Sauce
Add remaining butter to the pan. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze
Pour in white wine and let it simmer 2–3 minutes until reduced by half.
Add Lemon
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water.
Combine
Return shrimp to the pan, add cooked spaghetti, and toss well to coat.
Finish
Add parsley, adjust seasoning, and toss once more. Serve with Parmesan and lemon wedges.

Description

This Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is vibrant, buttery, garlicky, and refreshing. The lemon brightens the entire dish, the garlic adds irresistible aroma, and the plump shrimp offer satisfying protein. It’s both elegant and comforting — the kind of meal that tastes like an Italian restaurant favorite made right at home.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: varies based on added salt
Sugar: 3 g

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create bold, unforgettable flavors. Its mix of bright citrus, rich butter, and savory garlic makes it a guaranteed favorite at any table.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with:

Garlic bread
A light Caesar or arugula salad
A crisp chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This recipe achieves a lovely balance — indulgent flavors from butter and shrimp, lifted by lemon and herbs for freshness. Enjoying dishes like shrimp scampi encourages mindful pleasure: savoring good ingredients, beautiful aromas, and joyful cooking moments without overcomplicating things.

If you want, I can also turn this into a printable format, a shorter recipe card, or a social media–ready post!