Frying Pan Shrimp Scampi
Juicy, tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic and herb butter sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, elegant dish with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- De-shell the shrimp and butterfly them.
- Dry the shrimp thoroughly.
- Heat the butter, olive oil, garlic, salt, basil, and oregano in a frying pan until very hot.
- Add the shrimp to the hot pan.
- Stir constantly and cook for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with French roll and wine.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible; frozen shrimp can work but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. If you don’t have basil, consider substituting with a bit of Italian seasoning. Adjust garlic to your taste; roasted garlic can add a sweet touch. To avoid overcooking, watch for the shrimp turning pink and opaque, which indicates they're ready. This dish pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp scampi immediately with a side of crusty French rolls for dipping in the buttery sauce. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the dish nicely. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, which enhances the flavors of the shrimp. This dish is also great alongside dishes like Baked Salmon Steaks for a seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frying Pan Shrimp Scampi contains roughly 853 calories, with 23g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (347% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It's best to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine. Each will provide a different flavor profile, but both will work well in this shrimp scampi recipe. Just ensure the olive oil is of good quality for the best taste.
How can I tell when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking about 2 to 2 1/2 minutes in the pan. If you notice they curl into a 'C' shape, that usually indicates they are done. Avoid cooking them too long, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).