There’s an unmistakable charm that comes with preparing a delightful meal at home, and nothing encapsulates that quite like Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter filling your kitchen as succulent shrimp sauté joyfully in a sizzle of olive oil—it’s a sensory delight! This recipe is my go-to when I need a satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor but fits into a busy evening.
In just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that will impress your guests, making them think you’ve spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. The al dente pasta combined with a zesty sauce and fresh ingredients make each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, with the added flexibility of substitutions, from gluten-free pasta to extra vegetables, this shrimp scampi can easily adapt to fit your dietary needs while still delivering that classic, rich taste. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this quick and delicious culinary adventure!
Why is Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the succulent shrimp.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with a restaurant-quality meal they’re sure to love!
Versatile Ingredients: Whether you’re in the mood for gluten-free pasta or want to add extra veggies, this recipe adapts to your needs effortlessly.
Cooking Confidence: With uncomplicated steps, even novice cooks can create a stunning meal with ease.
Perfect Pairing: Serve with garlic bread to soak up that zesty sauce and a light salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi, and take your dinner game to the next level!
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp (1 lb) – The star of the dish, bringing a fresh sea flavor. Substitution: Thawed, pre-cooked shrimp can save time but reduce cooking time to avoid overcooking.
For the Pasta
- Pasta (8 oz linguine or spaghetti) – This forms the hearty base of the meal. Substitution: Gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles offer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the sauce. Note: Adjust the quantity for a lighter version.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Enhances the flavors and assists in cooking. Substitution: Avocado oil can be used for a different yet delightful taste.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic quality and depth. Alternative: Garlic powder can suffice in a pinch (1 tsp).
- Red Pepper Flakes (1 tsp) – Offers a touch of heat to the dish; adjust to your spice preference. Substitution: Freshly chopped chili peppers can add a unique flavor.
- Lemon (1, zested and juiced) – Brightens the dish with acidity and freshness. Substitution: Lime provides a nice alternative citrus boost.
- Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Acts as the sauce base for richer flavor. Substitution: Use vegetable broth for a plant-based option without compromising taste.
- Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – Adds a pop of color and freshness. Note: Dried parsley is fine in a pinch, or swap in aromatic basil or chives.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the lovely flavors of the shrimp scampi. Adjust according to taste preferences.
Get ready to create a wonderful meal that embodies the spirit of cooking at home with this Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi recipe!
How to Make Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside!
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Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, combine olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully pink. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making your kitchen smell heavenly!
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Combine Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon juice and zest. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, gradually adding the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste!
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Finish and Serve: Off the heat, stir in the fresh parsley for that burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parsley and lemon wedges to brighten the dish!
Optional: Serve with crusty garlic bread for the perfect sauce-sopping accompaniment.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the zesty flavors of shrimp scampi.
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Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up the luscious garlic butter sauce, adding both texture and robust flavor.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh mix of peppery arugula with a light lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast to the rich scampi.
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Vegetable Medley: Sautéed or roasted seasonal vegetables provide a colorful, nutritious balance. Think vibrant bell peppers and tender zucchini for a delightful crunch.
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Crispy Fried Zucchini: The crispy texture beautifully contrasts the softness of the pasta, bringing a fun twist to your plate.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine enhances the dish’s citrus notes and complements the succulent shrimp brilliantly.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, making for a lovely ending to your zesty meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing adds depth and a touch of richness, perfect alongside the pasta dish.
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Pesto Pasta: A side of simple pesto pasta marries well with the shrimp’s flavor profile while adding another layer of herbal delight.
Embrace these pairings, and watch your dinner table transform into a feast that your loved ones won’t forget!
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and make it truly yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter touch.
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Creamy Twist: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce; it creates a velvety finish that’s simply divine.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted asparagus to satisfy your veggie cravings while keeping the great flavors.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to add more color and nutrients, turning this dish into a veggie feast too!
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños for an added spicy surprise.
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Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon for a delightful aromatic twist that brightens the dish.
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Seafood Medley: Mix things up by adding scallops or crabmeat along with the shrimp to create a delicious seafood combination.
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Citrus Boost: Play around with different citrus flavors by using lime juice or even a splash of orange juice to surprise your palate!
Storage Tips for Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: If you want to freeze it, place shrimp scampi in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to help revive the sauce.
Note: Fresh shrimp scampi has the best flavor, so enjoy it soon after preparation for an unforgettable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious dinner even on your busiest nights! You can prep the shrimp and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook the shrimp until just pink, then immediately chill and refrigerate them. Prepare the sauce, excluding the fresh parsley, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps maintain the vibrant flavors while preventing the shrimp from becoming rubbery. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and shrimp together in a skillet, toss in the cooked pasta, fresh parsley, and enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp scampi with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
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Shrimp Perfection: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they only need 2-3 minutes per side. Perfectly sautéed shrimp are tender and juicy.
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Balance Your Sauce: Start with a little pasta water and add gradually to reach the ideal sauce consistency. This helps prevent a watery dish.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper while seasoning the shrimp. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp scampi.
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Minimize Skillet Crowding: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to maintain high heat, promoting even cooking for that delicious, crispy exterior.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and ingredients for maximum flavor impact; this makes all the difference in your Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi!
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp is best for this dish?
I recommend using large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a clean, sea-fresh smell. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it from drying out. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove to preserve the delicate flavors of the dish.
Can I freeze shrimp scampi?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze shrimp scampi, place it in a freezer-safe container after it has cooled completely. It can be kept for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or pasta water to help revive the sauce.
Why is my shrimp tough?
Shrimp can become tough if they are overcooked, which typically happens if they cook for longer than 2-3 minutes per side. To avoid this, ensure your heat is high enough and don’t overcrowd the skillet, which can lower the temperature.
Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! This recipe is quite flexible. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or use zucchini noodles for a lighter option. For a lower-calorie version, you can reduce the amount of butter or use less oil without sacrificing flavor.
Are there allergy considerations?
Certainly! If you are cooking for someone with seafood allergies, this dish should be avoided. However, you can easily adapt the recipe by substituting shrimp with chicken or mushrooms for a different yet delicious experience. Always check for additional allergies related to ingredients like garlic or butter before serving.
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi: Quick, Zesty Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside!
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, combine olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they're beautifully pink. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth along with the lemon juice and zest. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and reduce slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the shrimp and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, gradually adding the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Off the heat, stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
