Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, adorned with succulent shrimp, glistening with a delicate white wine sauce, and sprinkled with vibrant green peas and fresh Parmesan - this Shrimp Scampi Pasta is not just a meal, it's a gourmet experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary journey. Whether you're looking to impress a date, treat your family, or simply indulge in a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and transport your senses straight to the Italian coastline.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup peas
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour white wine and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and bright green.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and add drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently mix to combine.
- Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- Don't overcook the shrimp - they should turn pink and curl slightly, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side.
- Reserve pasta water is crucial for creating a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
- Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor, and be careful not to burn it when sautéing.
- Choose a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for the best flavor profile.
- For extra richness, consider adding a tablespoon of butter when tossing the pasta.
- Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 220mg
