Shrimp Scampi Angel Hair Pasta

Shrimp Scampi feels like the best kind of weeknight upgrade something that cooks up fast but truly makes dinnertime special The silky pasta buttery white wine sauce and garlicky shrimp come together in just half an hour I come back to this dish again and again for how satisfying and reliable it is whether I am making it for family or impressing guests

After that first time I made this just to use up shrimp lurking in my freezer now everyone expects it whenever they spot shrimp in the fridge I love how much flavor you get out of so few fresh ingredients

Ingredients

• Angel hair pasta: delivers just the right delicate texture Buy a brand that cooks up tender but still has a bite
• Olive oil: gives the dish richness Look for extra virgin for the best flavor
• Large uncooked shrimp: become sweet and juicy Devein for the cleanest taste fresh or frozen both work
• Dry white wine: adds acidity and depth I like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay Pick something you would drink
• Salted butter: creates a luxurious glossy sauce
• Fresh garlic: gives bold sharp flavor Use cloves you mince yourself for maximum punch
• Chicken broth: brings a savory background Choose low sodium for better control
• Fresh diced tomatoes: add juicy freshness Try vine ripened for best flavor or cherry tomatoes for sweetness
• Roughly chopped parsley: brightens the dish and gives color Flat leaf is best if you can find it
• Fresh lemon wedges: supply zest and tang Smooth-skinned lemons are usually juicier
• Parmesan cheese: adds creamy saltiness Always grate from a block for the smoothest melt
• Reserved pasta water: helps emulsify the cheese into the sauce scoop it right before you drain the pasta
• Seasonings: oregano basil mustard powder seasoned salt all deepen the flavor profile
• Smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes: give a bit of warmth and gentle heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Have all ingredients measured and ready as the recipe moves quickly Thaw and pat dry the shrimp Remove tails and veins as needed Place Parmesan cheese in a sealed jar for later

Sauté the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add shrimp in a single layer Cook for one to two minutes per side just until turning pink Remove to a plate Shrimp will continue cooking later

Simmer the Wine:

Turn off heat add white wine Return heat to medium Simmer and reduce by half about five minutes This step infuses lots of flavor and removes the harshness of the alcohol

Build the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Lower heat to medium low Stir in garlic and butter Sauté for about two minutes until garlic is fragrant and butter is melted but not browned

Add Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in chicken broth and all seasoning herbs Simmer gently for five to six minutes letting flavors concentrate

Cook the Pasta:

Boil angel hair in generously salted water until al dente about two to three minutes Scoop out half a cup of pasta water before draining

Make the Parmesan Mixture:

While pasta cooks shake the reserved pasta water with grated Parmesan in the jar until smooth This prevents clumps and makes the sauce creamy

Combine Everything:

Toss drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce Pour in Parmesan mixture Use tongs to coat every strand

Add Shrimp and Tomatoes:

Mix shrimp and chopped tomatoes into the skillet Toss until heated through

Finish and Serve:

Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the dish Sprinkle with chopped parsley Serve with extra lemon wedges and more Parmesan at the table

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I always keep fresh lemons on hand because they give not just zest in the scampi but can brighten up almost anything I cook Once my little niece helped sprinkle parsley on top and she was so proud to be the finishing touch chef

Storage Tips

Shrimp Scampi tastes best fresh but leftovers can be cooled quickly and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days When reheating add a drizzle of broth or water so the sauce loosens and the pasta does not dry out I use a skillet over medium low heat instead of the microwave to keep the shrimp tender

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of white wine just use more chicken broth for a milder sauce Whole wheat spaghetti can be swapped for angel hair if you want a bit more heft Fresh tomatoes are classic but feel free to use drained canned diced tomatoes to save prep time If you prefer no dairy plant based butter and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can yield a similar finish

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Scampi shines on its own but adding a crisp green salad or garlicky sautéed broccolini on the side rounds out the meal Well toasted ciabatta is great to soak up any extra sauce For a special dinner a glass of the same wine you cook with always makes the flavors pop

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Cultural and Historical Context

Shrimp Scampi is Italian American comfort through and through transforming classic Venetian scampi into a quick skillet meal with bright American influences The version you see here is the kind of dish you might find at cozy Italian restaurants in the US It is seen as a weeknight staple in many homes because it is quick and feels special

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best type of shrimp to use?

Large, uncooked shrimp work best, whether fresh or frozen. Thaw frozen shrimp fully, then peel, devein, and dry before cooking.

→ Which wine pairs well with this pasta dish?

Sauvignon Blanc is ideal for the sauce, but Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio also work well. If you prefer, chicken broth can be used instead of wine.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the angel hair pasta until just al dente. Set a timer and avoid overcooking to ensure a perfect texture.

→ Can I substitute fresh tomatoes with something else?

Yes, drained Rotel tomatoes can add a touch of spice and still blend nicely with the other flavors.

→ What kind of Parmesan is best for this dish?

Shred Parmesan from a block for the creamiest melt and better taste compared to pre-grated cheese.