Scampi(Shrimp)
Juicy shrimp marinated in a flavorful garlic, parsley, sherry, and herb mixture, perfect for elegant appetizers or seafood lovers seeking bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shell the shrimp until the last segment, leaving the tail on.
- With a sharp knife, cut the back of each shrimp to devein.
- Wash and pat dry the shrimp.
- Combine garlic, olive oil, scallions or shallots, dry sherry, dry mustard, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano (if using), and mace in a deep bowl; stir thoroughly until combined.
- Taste the marinade for seasoning.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade; turn with a spoon until totally covered, then cover with plastic wrap.
- Keep at room temperature for about 2 hours, turning the shrimp 2 or 3 times so they are covered and moistened.
- Choose a shallow dish just large enough to hold one layer of shrimp and arrange the marinated shrimp in it.
- Pour the marinade over the shrimp.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the shrimp for the full 2 hours, turning them occasionally. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will still yield tasty results. You can substitute dry sherry with white wine or lemon juice for a different flavor profile. Fresh garlic is recommended over jarred for better taste. Optional ingredients like oregano can enhance the dish, but it's not necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp over a bed of pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful marinade. A light salad, such as a green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, pairs beautifully with the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving with Lemon Shrimp Scampi or Mediterranean recipes for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover marinated shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently sauté the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-4 minutes, to avoid overcooking. Do not freeze the shrimp after marinating, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scampi(Shrimp) contains roughly 823 calories, with 26g protein, 179g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (376% 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 666mg per serving (29% 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 can be used, but it's best to thaw them completely before marinating. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Ensure they are cleaned and deveined before marinating.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, which have high smoke points and neutral flavors. However, olive oil adds a distinct taste, so if you want to maintain that Mediterranean flavor, stick to high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, as it relies on herbs and garlic for flavor. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade if you prefer some heat. Adjust to your taste for the desired spice level.
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).