An elegant, yet simple shrimp Scampi recipe anyone can make!

An elegant, yet simple shrimp Scampi recipe anyone can make!

When we go out to eat, there are certain dishes that are regarded as gourmet feasts which the average cook does not imagine is within their skill set as a cook. However, some of the most delightful of dishes rely on their simplicity of ingredients and preparation. Shrimp Scampi is one such dish. Even if you can barely boil water, this shrimp Scampi is easily prepared. This traditional Italian dish reflects the overall philosophy of Italian cooks. Use the highest quality, freshest ingredients available and the resulting dish can not help but be delicious. Here's your chance to impress your friends, family or date! Who said you can't cook? Our authentic shrimp Scampi recipe says otherwise!

Our shrimp Scampi recipe does call for fresh ingredients, such as fresh shrimp, freshly made pasta and fresh garlic cloves. However, the dish won't be ruined by substituting frozen shrimp or using packaged, dry pasta. Fresh is better, but your shrimp Scampi will still be delicious if you must substitute. The only essential ingredient which must be fresh is the cilantro. Dried cilantro has an entirely different flavor than fresh, so don't compromise there. Fresh cilantro is available at almost any supermarket, in bunches much like parsley and is usually located in the same area of the produce section.

This shrimp Scampi recipe is enhanced when you prepare the garlic, butter and cilantro mixture a few hours before serving, as this allows time for the flavors to 'marry', giving the finished dish more complexity and piquancy.

Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe
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1 lbs. of fresh medium (51-60 count) shrimp
2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
cup butter, melted
1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves, stems removed
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 lbs. fresh linguine noodles

1.Steam the shrimp, or simmer in a small amount of water, enough to just cover. When the shrimp turn bright pink, they're done. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp to a colander. (You may save and freeze the water in which the shrimp was cooked, which can be used later to flavor a chowder recipe this is optional.) When the shrimp has cooled enough to handle, use your fingers to remove the legs and then the shell, which will come off easily in a single piece. Leave the tail on. Take a sharp paring knife to devein the shrimp you'll see a thin black line running across the top curve of the shrimp. Wash each shrimp under running water to remove all traces of this vein and set the shrimp aside in a large bowl. Refrigerate.

2.Peel the garlic cloves and mince finely. Set aside.

3.Place the butter in a small glass bowl and melt in the microwave this takes just 20-30 seconds in an 1100-watt microwave. Add the minced garlic and set aside.

4.Use scissors to cut the fresh cilantro, removing the stems as you cut. (Remember, fresh cilantro is essential for an authentic shrimp Scampi recipe.) Add the cilantro to the butter-garlic mixture.

5.Just a half hour before serving, prepare the linguine according to the package instructions (whether fresh or dried). Drain the noodles well and remove to a large bowl. Toss the noodles with the lemon juice.

6.Warm the butter mixture briefly and pour over the shrimp. Microwave the shrimp and butter at 50% power for 45 seconds, or until heated through.

7.Using tongs, place a portion of noodles on each dinner plate. Spoon the shrimp over the noodles, dividing equally among each serving plate. Pour any remaining butter over each plate.

Serve with garlic bread and enjoy! This shrimp Scampi recipe is both easy and impressive, guaranteed to please the most discerning diner!