Zesty Shrimp Scampi with Lemon & Garlic

This delightful dish combines the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic with succulent shrimp, making it a perfect meal for seafood lovers. The sauce is light and flavorful, perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, and let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
7. Remove from heat, and stir in the chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Garnish with lemon zest, if desired, and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.