Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Ingredients

• 9 large shrimp (peeled and deveined; about 8-10 count)
• 0.25 tsp salt (for seasoning shrimp)
• 0.25 tsp smoked paprika (for seasoning shrimp)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for seasoning shrimp)
• 100 g pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3.5 garlic cloves (finely chopped; about 3-4 cloves)
• 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.5 lemon zest (zest of 1/2 lemon; optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional but highly recommended)
• 0.25 cup dry white wine (can substitute with chicken broth)
• salt (to your liking)
• black pepper (to your liking)
• 2 tbsp parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese (grated)

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.

2. 2

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. 3

   While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and sear until pink and cooked through, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

4. 4

   In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat.

5. 5

   Add the finely chopped garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to the butter. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

6. 6

   Pour in 1/4 cup of dry white wine (or chicken broth) and the lemon juice. Let the liquid simmer and reduce by about half, approximately 2 minutes.

7. 7

   Stir in the lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to taste.

8. 8

   Add the cooked pasta and the seared shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce.

9. 9

   Garnish with 2 tbsp of chopped parsley and 2 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer a saucier pasta, reserve a splash of the pasta cooking water to add to the skillet at the end.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• pasta
• shrimp
• seafood
• quick dinner
• Italian-American