Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Red Lobster’s famous shrimp scampi from the comfort of your own kitchen. This beloved dish combines succulent shrimp with a tantalizing garlic and white wine sauce, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a truly delectable meal. Perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to impress seafood lovers with its authentic taste and elegant presentation.

Ingredients

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon pure olive oil
2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended)
1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup softened butter
1 tablespoon parsley
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook until they are tender and no longer translucent. Reduce the heat, remove the shrimp from the skillet, and set them aside.
Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this will make it bitter.
Add Wine and Lemon Juice: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Cook until the wine is reduced by half, then add the Italian seasoning.
Incorporate the Butter: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened butter. Stir continuously to ensure the butter melts evenly without separating.
Combine and Season: Add the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat well. Add the parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shrimp and sauce. Allow it to melt slightly before serving.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Presentation: Serve the shrimp scampi in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the succulent shrimp and rich sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon for a burst of color and freshness.
Accompaniments: Pair the shrimp scampi with al dente pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, serve it with crusty garlic bread or over a bed of rice.
Side Dishes: Complement the shrimp scampi with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans.
Wine Pairing: Serve this dish with a glass of the same white wine used in the recipe, such as Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity and flavor profile will enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed hot. Serve immediately after cooking to ensure the shrimp are tender and the sauce is at its peak flavor.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing: While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Place the cooled shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the shrimp scampi gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of white wine or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Microwave Reheating: For individual servings, reheat in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate to retain moisture.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be mindful not to overcook the shrimp. Heat just until warmed through to preserve the shrimp’s tender texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the exquisite flavors of Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi both fresh and as leftovers, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first!