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Carrabba's shrimp scampi copycat recipe

Carrabba's Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Lisa Street
When you sit down to enjoy a plate of Carrabba's shrimp scampi, the first thing you'll want to consider is what to pair with this delightful dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 to 1.5 pounds of jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined, raw
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter substitute ghee for Whole30
  • 6 large garlic cloves finely minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup dry white wine or broth Pinot Grigio recommended; omit for Whole30
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 lemon halved
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tablespoons capers drained

Instructions
 

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your shrimp are appropriately peeled and deveined. This step saves you time later. Chop your garlic and parsley, and get your wine ready.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, and the butter should melt without browning. This combination will give you the best flavor for the shrimp.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it gently for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. The goal is to soften the garlic and infuse the oil without burning it.
  • Once the garlic is fragrant, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink.
  • Turn the shrimp over and add the wine (or broth) to the pan. This is where the magic happens. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
  • While the shrimp cooks, take one half of the lemon and squeeze its juice over the shrimp. The brightness of the lemon juice really lifts all the flavors.
  • Once the shrimp is cooked, stir in the capers and chopped parsley. Allow them to meld together for about a minute, creating a rich harmony of flavors.
  • Serve the shrimp scampi immediately. If you’ve prepared pasta, toss it in the sauce to soak up all those delightful flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for presentation!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you can, buy from a local fish market.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. If they turn rubbery, you’ve cooked them too long. Keep an eye on the color.
  • Experiment with Wines: If you're not a fan of Pinot Grigio, try Sauvignon Blanc or even a dry rosé. Each will bring different notes to your dish.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach. They add flavor and nutrition.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not into spice, skip the red pepper flakes. For heat lovers, feel free to double them!

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSodium: 600mg
Keyword Carrabba's shrimp scampi recipe
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