Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of shrimp scampi bowls! This dish is a perfect harmony of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a garlic-infused sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Paired with golden, crispy garlic bread, this meal is not just dinner, but an experience to savor. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these shrimp scampi bowls will impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 French baguette
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat, letting them melt together into a luscious blend.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until the air is fragrant with garlicky goodness.
- Stir in the shrimp, cooking until they turn a beautiful pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice, letting the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and reduce slightly.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture, adding the fresh parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- For the garlic bread, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and spread the halves with a savory mixture of softened butter and minced garlic, then sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the garlic bread in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until it’s golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
- Serve the shrimp scampi in bowls with the garlic bread on the side, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or spinach, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. For a richer taste, you can substitute the dry white wine with a splash of seafood stock. And don’t skimp on the parsley; it adds a fresh contrast to the rich sauce!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking shrimp requires a gentle touch. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re ready! Also, don’t forget to let your pasta cook just until al dente; this ensures it holds up well when mixed with the saucy shrimp.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.
What type of pasta can I use? While linguine and spaghetti work beautifully, you can use any pasta you have on hand that you enjoy.
Can I make this dish in advance? Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic bread ahead of time and reheat it as you cook the shrimp and pasta.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps laid out, it’s time to dive into this comforting shrimp scampi bowl! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your loved ones, serve it hot, and watch as everyone digs in with smiles on their faces. Enjoy every bite!