My husband’s exact words after his first bite, “Oh my god, Ashley, this is fantastic!” We all agreed, and now it’s a family favorite! This dish is an absolutely wonderful meal, embodying the essence of a luxurious dining experience. You can opt to enjoy these succulent shrimp on top of freshly cooked pasta for a complete meal, or like me, savor them with bread – the perfect companion!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups of a flavorful broth or non-alcoholic white wine alternative
- 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How To Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet and add olive oil.
- Cook the shrimp until they are tender and no longer translucent. Then, reduce the heat, remove the shrimp from the skillet, and set them aside.
- Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Pour in the broth or non-alcoholic white wine alternative and lemon juice, cooking until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat to low and add the softened butter, ensuring it emulsifies into the sauce without separating.
- Return the shrimp to the sauce, add parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Additional Tips:
- Shrimp Preparation: Ensure they are properly cleaned and deveined.
- Cooking Shrimp: Avoid overcooking; they’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Sauce Reduction: The key to a flavorful sauce is reducing the liquid properly.
- Butter Addition: Add on low heat for a rich and creamy texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
- Protein: Roughly 20-25g per serving, mainly from the shrimp
- Fat: About 15-20g per serving, from the olive oil and butter
- Carbohydrates: Around 5-10g per serving, depending on sides
- Sodium: Moderate to high; use freshly grated Parmesan to control sodium content
- Dietary Fiber: Minimal; primarily from garlic and parsley
This famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a great choice for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home, with a mindful approach to ingredients for those watching their fat intake.
FAQs About Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Fresh and frozen shrimp both work well, but the key is to ensure they are properly prepared before cooking.
- How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked? Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? This dish is best served fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and sauce just before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? This recipe contains shrimp, dairy, and potential gluten (if served with bread or pasta). It is not suitable for vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free diets without significant modifications. For a gluten-free version, serve with gluten-free pasta or bread, and always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Remember, this recipe is versatile, and you can adjust it according to your taste preferences and dietary requirements. Enjoy your cooking and savor this delightful dish!