Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb thin spaghetti; salt and pepper; 1 lb raw shrimp; 3 cloves garlic; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 1 lemon; 4 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4¼ cup White Wine; 20 buttery crackers; 6 oz parmesan cheese; 12 oz frozen peas

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan and Peas recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. You'll find the succulence of shrimp melding perfectly with the creaminess of Parmesan cheese. The added peas provide a pop of color and freshness, making this dish not just a treat to your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.

Photos of Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are common in many households, but there are a few you might need to pick up. The raw shrimp, if not already at home, is an essential part of this dish, so ensure to buy fresh, deveined ones for the best taste. Get a bottle of good quality white wine, which will enhance the flavor of the sauce. The buttery crackers used for the crispy crumb topping might not be in your everyday pantry, so remember to add it to your shopping list.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan and Peas

Thin spaghetti: Thin spaghetti is used in this recipe to absorb the flavors of the shrimp and the sauce better.

Raw shrimp: The star of the dish, it adds a unique flavor and texture to the pasta.

Garlic: An essential ingredient that gives the dish its characteristic flavor.

Crushed red pepper flakes: They add a hint of heat to the dish.

Lemon: The acidity of the lemon balances out the richness of the butter and cheese.

Butter: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and forming the base of the sauce.

White wine: Adds complexity and depth to the flavor of the sauce.

Buttery crackers: They add a pleasing crunch to the dish.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory flavor to the dish.

Frozen peas: They add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

One reader, Ephrem Croft says:

This shrimp scampi pasta with parmesan and peas recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of savory and zesty, and the addition of peas gives it a delightful pop of freshness. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and satisfying pasta dish.

Ephrem Croft

Mastering the Techniques for Shrimp Scampi Pasta

How to prepare shrimp: Shrimp should be cleaned and deveined before cooking. To clean the shrimp, remove the shells and tails, and then devein by making a shallow cut along the back and removing the dark vein.

How to cook pasta al dente: When cooking the pasta, follow the package instructions but cook it for one minute less than the recommended time to achieve the perfect al dente texture.

How to make lemon zest: Use a zester or a fine grater to remove the outer yellow skin of the lemon. Be careful to only grate the yellow part, as the white pith underneath is bitter.

How to make a white wine sauce: After adding the white wine to the pan, allow it to come to a boil and then simmer for a few seconds to cook off the alcohol and reduce the liquid slightly before adding the other ingredients.

How to incorporate butter into the sauce: Once the pan is off the heat, add the butter to the white wine sauce and whisk continuously until the butter is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

How to thaw frozen peas: If using frozen peas, they should be thawed before adding to the dish. This can be done by placing the peas in a colander and running them under cold water until they are no longer frozen.

How To Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas

This shrimp scampi pasta has a variety of flavors, lemony, cheesy, buttery, and even slightly spicy. The dish is finished off with buttery crackers on top.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbthin spaghetti
Salt and pepper,to taste
1lbraw shrimp,(21-25 count), peeled and deveined with tail on
3clovesgarlic,minced
½tspcrushed red pepper flakes
1lemon,zested and juiced
4tbspbutter,divided
2tbspolive oil
1/4¼cupwhite wine
20buttery crackers,crushed into pieces and crumbs
6ozparmesan cheese,shredded
12ozfrozen peas

Instructions

Set pot of salted water to boil for the pasta.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan and add crushed buttery crackers.
Cook until crackers are crisped and browned.
Remove from pan and reserve in small bowl.
Add pasta to boiling salted water and cook one minute shy of directions on the box.
Wipe frying pan clean with paper towel.
Add salt and pepper to taste on the shrimp.
Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic and crushed red pepper in the pan on medium high.
Cook shrimp for 2 minutes on each side, until just cooked through.
Remove shrimp from the pan.
Drain the pasta.
Add white wine and lemon (juice and zest) to the pan and whisk with the olive oil for a few seconds until it just comes to a boil.
Turn off the heat and add in the butter.
Whisk until the butter is combined.
Add the pasta to the pan with the shrimp and mix.
Add in the frozen peas, Parmesan cheese and buttery crackers, toss again.
Top with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 507.73kcal
Fat: 18.11g
Saturated Fat: 8.30g
Trans Fat: 0.32g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.24g
Carbohydrates: 55.40g
Fiber: 4.31g
Sugar: 4.76g
Protein: 29.43g
Cholesterol: 121.01mg
Sodium: 493.16mg
Calcium: 328.06mg
Potassium: 401.00mg
Iron: 2.35mg
Vitamin A: 137.26µg
Vitamin C: 11.86mg

Elevate Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta with This Simple Technique

When cooking the shrimp, it's crucial not to overcook them as they can quickly become rubbery. The key is to cook them until they just turn pink and start to curl into a C-shape. If they curl into a tight O-shape, they're likely overcooked. Also, adding the frozen peas directly to the hot pasta will help them thaw quickly without becoming mushy.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and devein shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp and sauce to save time and ensure everything is ready at the same time.

Use frozen peas: Opt for frozen peas instead of fresh ones to save time on shelling and preparation. They cook quickly and are convenient.

Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with chopped cooked chicken: Chicken can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish.
thin spaghetti - Substitute with linguine or fettuccine: These pasta varieties have a similar texture and can hold the sauce well.
buttery crackers - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can provide a similar crunchy texture when used as a topping.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor that can work well in the dish.
frozen peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame can provide a similar pop of green color and texture to the dish.

Elevate Your Plate: Presentation Tips for Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Elevate the plating: Arrange the shrimp scampi pasta in a circular motion on the plate, ensuring the shrimp are evenly distributed and the pasta is neatly stacked in the center.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped Italian parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a delicate sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors and provide a satisfying crunch.
Utilize fine dining tableware: Present the shrimp scampi pasta on a pristine, white, wide-rimmed plate to create a visually appealing contrast.
Create a lemon twist: Garnish the dish with a thin, curled lemon peel to add a touch of elegance and a burst of citrus aroma.
Add a touch of sophistication: Place a small, edible micro-flower on the plate to add a subtle, yet luxurious, touch to the presentation.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some of the plate to remain uncovered, creating an artistic and visually striking presentation.
Use a drizzle of olive oil: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a glossy sheen to the pasta.
Emphasize the shrimp: Position the shrimp strategically on top of the pasta, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish and are showcased prominently.
Elevate the dining experience: Serve the shrimp scampi pasta with parmesan and peas on a warm, elegant plate to enhance the overall sensory experience for the diners.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan and Peas

Pot: A large, deep container typically used for boiling or cooking food.
Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Paper towel: An absorbent paper used for cleaning and drying food items and surfaces.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations used for draining liquids from food items.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
Juicer: A tool used to extract juice from fruits and vegetables.
Zester: A kitchen tool used to remove the zest from citrus fruits.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting food items.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.

Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Shrimp Scampi Pasta

To store leftover shrimp scampi pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze, portion the cooled shrimp scampi pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out any excess air to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the containers, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen shrimp scampi pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Note: The texture of the pasta and shrimp may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be delicious. The peas may also lose some of their vibrant color and become softer after freezing.
If you plan to freeze the shrimp scampi pasta, consider undercooking the pasta slightly (by 1-2 minutes) before mixing it with the sauce. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft when reheated.

How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta

To reheat leftover shrimp scampi pasta, start by placing the desired amount of pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help moisten the pasta and prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Cover the dish with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid. This will help to trap the steam and keep the shrimp and pasta from becoming rubbery or overcooked.
Microwave the pasta on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. The exact time will depend on the amount of pasta and the power of your microwave.
If you prefer to reheat the shrimp scampi pasta on the stovetop, place the desired amount of pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan, and gently stir the pasta to distribute the liquid.
Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and allow the pasta to steam for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The shrimp and pasta should be heated through and the sauce should be warm and bubbly.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle some reserved buttery cracker crumbs over the reheated pasta and place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the crumbs are golden brown and crispy.
If the reheated shrimp scampi pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil to help restore some moisture and richness to the dish.
Taste the reheated pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a grating of fresh Parmesan cheese to brighten up the flavors.
Serve the reheated shrimp scampi pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious and easy leftovers!

Fascinating Facts About Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Shrimp scampi pasta with parmesan and peas is a classic Italian-American dish that originated from the Veneto region of Italy. It is traditionally made with shrimp, garlic, butter, white wine, and pasta. The dish is often served with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese and a side of peas. Despite its Italian roots, the dish has become a popular staple in American cuisine, particularly in seafood restaurants. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a favorite among many food enthusiasts.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Shrimp Scampi Pasta Cost-Effective?

This shrimp scampi pasta with parmesan and peas recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of shrimp and parmesan cheese may increase the cost, but the dish's overall flavor and quality justify the expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$35. The combination of shrimp, pasta, and parmesan cheese creates a delightful and satisfying meal. The dish's versatility and ability to cater to various tastes make it a solid choice for a family dinner. Verdict: 8/10.

Is Shrimp Scampi Pasta a Healthy Choice?

This shrimp scampi pasta recipe, while delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The dish is high in carbohydrates from the pasta and crackers, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
Butter and olive oil add significant amounts of saturated and unsaturated fats to the dish.
Parmesan cheese is high in sodium and saturated fat.
The recipe lacks vegetables, apart from the peas, which limits its nutritional value.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Shrimp, which is low in calories and high in protein and essential nutrients like iodine and selenium.
Garlic, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Lemon, which provides vitamin C and can aid in digestion.
Peas, which are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the thin spaghetti with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles to increase fiber content and reduce carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of butter and olive oil used, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil.
Limit the number of buttery crackers or replace them with whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Use a reduced-fat parmesan cheese to lower the saturated fat content.
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and nutrients.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still retains the delicious flavors of the original shrimp scampi pasta recipe.

Editor's Take on This Delightful Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

The shrimp scampi pasta with parmesan and peas recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of white wine, garlic, and lemon creates a bright and tangy sauce that complements the succulent shrimp and al dente pasta. The addition of buttery crackers adds a delightful crunch, while the parmesan cheese brings a rich and savory note to the dish. The peas provide a pop of sweetness and vibrant color. Overall, this recipe is a well-balanced and satisfying dish that is sure to impress with its depth of flavors and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread with a crispy crust and soft, buttery center, perfect for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce.

Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing, a refreshing and light side to balance out the rich flavors of the shrimp scampi pasta.

Fruit Salad: A colorful and vibrant mix of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, tossed in a light citrus dressing, providing a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savory pasta dish.

Discover Delicious Alternatives to Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will satisfy all your comfort food cravings.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Spice up your dinner with this flavorful and colorful dish. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken for a tropical twist on a classic meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this velvety and comforting soup. The earthy flavors of butternut squash combined with aromatic spices will make this a new favorite in your soup rotation.

Berry Crisp: Indulge in a sweet and fruity dessert with this delicious berry crisp. The combination of tart berries and buttery crumble topping will have you coming back for seconds.

Appetizers and Desserts: The Ideal Bookends for Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: Elevate a classic appetizer by topping crispy slices of baguette with a fresh and vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet, juicy strawberries. Whether it's a classic New York style or a no-bake version, this dessert is sure to impress your guests with its decadent flavor and beautiful presentation.

Why trust this Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The succulent shrimp is cooked to perfection, complemented by the zesty notes of lemon and the richness of butter. The addition of white wine adds depth to the dish, while the parmesan cheese brings a creamy and savory element. The incorporation of peas provides a pop of freshness, creating a harmonious blend. Trust in this recipe for a restaurant-quality meal that will surely impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills.

Want to share your experience making this Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Parmesan & Peas Recipe or discuss tips and variations? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Linguine, fettuccine, or even penne would work well with this dish.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh shrimp would be a great option for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh shrimp may cook faster than frozen.

Can I substitute the white wine with something else?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. The wine adds a nice flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Can I omit the peas from the recipe?

Of course! If you're not a fan of peas, you can simply leave them out or substitute them with another vegetable of your choice, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve. Just store the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce separately, then reheat and combine when you're ready to enjoy the meal.