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When it comes to whipping up a meal that is both quick and bursting with flavor, few dishes can compete with Zesty Garlic Shrimp Scampi Pasta. This enticing recipe is not only a culinary delight but also a practical choice for busy weeknights or special occasions where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The delightful combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is satisfying and memorable.

Classic Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Garlic Shrimp Scampi Pasta, a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and key ingredients like lemon and fresh parsley to create a memorable meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests, it's customizable to suit your taste. Elevate your dining experience with this comforting and versatile classic that's both satisfying and easy to make!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz linguine or spaghetti

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)

½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

1 lemon, juiced and zested

½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Season the Shrimp:

        - While the pasta cooks, place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

          Sauté the Garlic:

            - In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it brown.

              Cook the Shrimp:

                - Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

                  Make the Sauce:

                    - In the same skillet, intensify the flavors by pouring in the white wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing it by half. Then, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth; bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

                      Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

                        - Return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together to evenly coat. If the dish appears dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

                          Finish and Serve:

                            - Gently fold in the chopped parsley and taste the dish, adjusting the salt and pepper to your preference. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

                                Presentation Tips: Serve in large, shallow bowls for a bistro-style experience. Garnish with an extra twist of lemon and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for visual appeal.