Description
A quick and flavorful Shrimp Scampi recipe made with fresh garlic, zesty lemon, and rich extra virgin olive oil. Ready in under 30 minutes, this vibrant and light dish is perfect for an elegant yet simple dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp and aromatics: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Mince the garlic and zest half a lemon, saving the juice for later. This prep work ensures quick cooking and a fragrant base for the dish.
- Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic as it turns bitter quickly.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly done.
- Add lemon and finish the sauce: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over the shrimp. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, stir in a small amount of natural gelling agent dissolved in a bit of water, allowing it to warm through until the shrimp are beautifully coated.
- Garnish and serve immediately: Remove from heat and toss in the freshly chopped parsley. Plate the shrimp over pasta, rice, or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread to dip into the luscious sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp as they become rubbery quickly.
- Toast the garlic gently to layer flavors without bitterness.
- Maintain moderate pan temperature to prevent burning the garlic.
- Add lemon juice last to preserve its bright freshness and avoid bitterness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
Keywords: shrimp scampi, quick dinner, garlic, lemon, seafood, gluten free, easy recipe, healthy
