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Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe Easy Lemon Wine Sauce Guide

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A quick and easy garlic butter shrimp scampi with a bright lemon wine sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. This flavorful dish combines juicy shrimp with a rich, buttery sauce accented by fresh lemon and garlic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pasta or crusty bread (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter; melt until foaming but not browned.
  3. Add shrimp in a single layer; cook 1.5-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Pour in white wine and scrape up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in lemon juice and remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted and sauce thickens gently.
  7. Return shrimp to the pan with red pepper flakes if using; toss to coat in sauce and cook 1-2 minutes.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure shrimp sear properly. Use room temperature shrimp and pat dry for best results. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil. Serve immediately for best flavor. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of water or lemon juice.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic butter shrimp, lemon wine sauce, quick shrimp recipe, easy dinner, seafood, weeknight meal