Pasta Scampi
A flavorful seafood pasta dish featuring tender shrimp in a zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and suitable for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the vermicelli pasta until al dente and drain.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and oil over medium heat.
- Add the peeled shrimp, chopped shallots or onion, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the shrimp start to turn pink.
- Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, and hot pepper sauce to the skillet.
- Cook until the shrimp are fully pink and cooked through.
- Pour the shrimp and sauce over the cooked pasta and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the hot pepper sauce. If shrimp aren't available, you can substitute with scallops or chicken for a different twist. To enhance the dish, serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or swap the parsley with fresh basil for a unique touch. Make sure to cook the shrimp just until pink to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta Scampi with a side of garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly for a balanced meal. For a broader culinary experience, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Bagna Cauda or Red Clam Spaghetti Sauce for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, sauté the dish in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can result in rubbery shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Scampi contains roughly 397 calories, with 13g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture. This will help achieve a perfect sear and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?
You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Olive oil is also a great option, which will give the dish a lighter taste while still enhancing the flavor of the shrimp and other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of Pasta Scampi?
Absolutely! You can replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian twist. Additionally, consider adding cherry tomatoes for color and flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of butter to maintain a rich taste.
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).