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Irresistible New Years Eve Shrimp Scampi Dinner Bowl Recipe Easy and Delicious

shrimp scampi dinner bowl - featured image

A quick, flavorful shrimp scampi dinner bowl perfect for New Year’s Eve or any special occasion, featuring tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and a comforting pasta or grain base.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine or chicken broth as a non-alcoholic substitute
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 8 ounces (225g) linguine, spaghetti, or cooked rice/quinoa
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). If using rice or quinoa, prepare according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup (60ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat 1 pound (450g) shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer. Sear without moving for 1-2 minutes until pink edges develop, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until opaque and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
  5. Pour in 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine or chicken broth to the hot pan. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in juice and zest of 1 lemon plus remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Let the butter melt slowly into the sauce, stirring gently to combine.
  7. Return shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta or grains. Toss gently to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce seems too thick. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley over the top.
  9. Serve immediately in bowls, spooning extra sauce over the top. Add lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking for a better sear. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Can substitute chicken broth for white wine. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or grains like quinoa or rice. Variations include adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or using different herbs like basil or tarragon.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, shrimp dinner bowl, garlic butter shrimp, easy shrimp recipe, New Years Eve dinner, seafood dinner, quick shrimp recipe