Description

Shrimp scampi pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish combining tender shrimp, garlic-infused olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or weeknight meals. Easily made gluten-free or low-carb.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

– 10 oz angel hair pasta (substitute gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for dietary needs)

– 1 tsp Kosher salt (divided; use ½ tsp for pasta, ½ tsp for seasoning shrimp)

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1 tbsp chopped garlic

– ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– ¾ cup white wine (substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth if needed)

– Juice of ½ lemon (about 1–2 tbsp)

– 1½ cups seeded and chopped Roma tomatoes

– 2 tbsp butter (substitute plant-based butter for vegan option)

– Fresh basil (½ cup, chopped; for garnish)

– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup; optional, omit for vegan version)

Optional Add-ins:

– Smoked paprika, chili powder, or saffron (for extra depth)

– Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers (for added nutrition)

– Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs (for crunch)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and return the pasta to the pot.
Season shrimp with ½ tsp Kosher salt and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning.
Pour in white wine and lemon juice. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
Add shrimp in an even layer. Cook for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 1 minute, or until opaque.
Combine the reserved pasta, ⅓ cup pasta water, and butter in the skillet. Stir well, adding more pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
Top with chopped basil and grated Parmesan before serving.

Notes

– Use fresh garlic: It offers superior aroma and flavor compared to pre-minced alternatives.

– Avoid overcooking shrimp: They should be tender and juicy, not rubbery.

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Freeze portions for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery shrimp.

– Customizations: Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or tofu. Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition. Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 4 servings per recipe)
Calories: ~350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 150mg