Hearty Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine

This delightful shrimp scampi linguine combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly mixed with al dente linguine. The dish is elegant enough for a special dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. The harmonious blend of garlic, butter, lemon, and parsley turns this dish into a culinary delight that will impress anyone.

Ingredients:
For the shrimp:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the scampi sauce:
Ingredients:
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pasta:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– Water, for boiling
– Salt

Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp:
1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
1. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter.
2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add the lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve:
1. Add the cooked shrimp and linguine to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until well combined, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs to be thinned.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
4. Divide the linguine and shrimp among plates.
5. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.

Enjoy your Hearty Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine with a side of crusty bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.