Scampi (Shrimp)
Juicy shrimp cooked in garlic and herbs, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal. Ideal for seafood lovers and those seeking an easy, delicious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and add minced garlic, salt, and oregano.
- Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
- Serve over rice or your favorite pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh shrimp for a more vibrant flavor. If fresh is unavailable, frozen shrimp works well; just ensure they're fully thawed before cooking. Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. You can substitute olive oil with butter for a richer taste or even try a blend of both. This recipe pairs beautifully with Grilled Fish Italiano for a seafood feast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scampi over fluffy rice or your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad works well to balance the richness of the dish. For a Mediterranean twist, consider pairing it with Mediterranean recipes like a light tabbouleh salad or roasted vegetables. The bright flavors complement the scampi beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp. You may add a splash of broth or water to help retain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scampi (Shrimp) contains roughly 160 calories, with 12g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (141% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% 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, frozen shrimp is a great option. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking. You can place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for quicker thawing. This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and retain their texture.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you don't have olive oil on hand, you can use unsalted butter or a blend of butter and oil for a richer flavor. Other options include avocado oil or canola oil, which have higher smoke points and neutral flavors. Each of these alternatives will impart a slightly different taste, so choose according to your preference.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should also form a 'C' shape when curled up. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough and rubbery. Typically, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes is sufficient, but keep an eye on them as they cook quickly.
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).