Are you searching for a simple yet flavorful seafood dish to impress your family and friends? Look no more – this easy garlic shrimp scampi pasta recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Follow these steps to make an irresistible shrimp scampi that even novice cooks can prepare.

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

– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

– Juice of 1 lemon

– Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

2. Prepare the shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the shrimp with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add half of the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes per side or until they are pink and cooked through. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set it aside.

4. Create the sauce: In the same skillet, add an additional 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil over low heat. Stir in the remaining minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. If you’re using white wine, add it to the skillet and bring it to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper.

5. Combine the pasta and shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, along with the reserved pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, stirring gently to combine.

6. Serve: Plate the garlic shrimp scampi pasta, topping it with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, preferably with crusty bread on the side for dipping into all that flavorful sauce.

This easy garlic shrimp scampi pasta recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. The combination of tender shrimp, zesty lemon-garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta will leave your family and friends begging for more. Enjoy!