Description
This Shrimp Scampi with Whole Wheat Pasta is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic seafood dish, combining succulent shrimp sautéed in a lemony garlic butter sauce with hearty whole wheat spaghetti. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that offers a balance of wholesome ingredients and vibrant Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the lemon zest and unsalted butter until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth and combined.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the sauce.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked whole wheat spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine vinegar or additional fresh lemon juice.
- You can substitute gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they cook quickly and can become tough.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder may alter the taste.
