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Shrimp Scampi with Whole Wheat Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 77 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

This Shrimp Scampi with Whole Wheat Pasta is a flavorful Italian-American dish that combines succulent sautéed shrimp with a garlic butter lemon sauce served over hearty whole wheat spaghetti. It’s a healthy seafood recipe that balances zest, richness, and wholesomeness, perfect for a quick yet elegant main course.


Ingredients

Seafood and Pasta

  • 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. Set pasta aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  4. Make Sauce: Pour the white wine or low-sodium chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  5. Finish Sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon zest until melted and well combined.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness in the sauce.
  • For added richness, stir in a splash of cream at the end of cooking.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.