Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s as elegant as it is effortless, look no further than Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta. This recipe marries tender, garlicky shrimp with the delicate strands of angel hair pasta, all enveloped in a luscious lemon-butter sauce that’s bright and comforting. Every bite bursts with fresh parsley and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a stunning dish to impress friends. Once you try this classic, it’s sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony, each playing a key role in building the vibrant flavors and silky textures that make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta so irresistible.

• 8 oz angel hair pasta: The delicate pasta effortlessly soaks up the luscious sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh, succulent shrimp provide the star protein, offering sweet flavor and a tender bite.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps create that signature velvety scampi sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil balances the butter and helps cook the garlic and shrimp to perfection.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that fragrant, savory punch that defines scampi.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Just a hint of heat to elevate the dish without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning is key for bringing all elements together in harmony.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Lemon juice brightens the sauce, adding refreshing acidity.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Lemon zest infuses fragrant oils, enhancing the citrus notes.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbal finish that cuts through the richness.
• Optional garnishes – lemon wedges and grated Parmesan cheese: For added tang and a salty, cheesy finish if desired.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta internally as it cooks, which is key for flavor development. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente. It’s important not to overcook because angel hair cooks quickly and should maintain a slight bite to hold up well in the sauce. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta water—this starchy liquid will be a fantastic tool to help bind the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that incredible aroma. Immediately add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. This step is quick but crucial—overcooked shrimp will be rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Once perfectly cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. The browned butter flavor pairs beautifully with lemon, so keep an eye on the heat. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of that reserved pasta water. Stir everything together to combine the flavors into a silky, tangy sauce with just the right consistency. The reserved pasta water’s starchiness will help the sauce cling to the pasta and shrimp, making every bite luscious.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the cooked angel hair pasta. Toss gently and thoroughly to ensure every strand gets coated with the bright, buttery sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred sauciness. This final step is where all the ingredients come alive together, creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures that make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta so unforgettable.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Garnishes

Finishing touches make dishes shine. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of vibrant green and a fresh, slightly peppery note that brightens every forkful. If you love citrus, serve with lemon wedges so everyone can add a finishing squeeze of brightness to their taste. For cheesy lovers, a light grating of Parmesan offers a savory depth and a salty counterpoint that complements the delicate seafood wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta pairs beautifully with a light, crisp side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus tones. Garlic bread or crusty baguettes are excellent choices to soak up any extra luscious sauce left on the plate, making sure no drop goes to waste. For vegetable lovers, steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli provide a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls, arranging the shrimp artfully on top and garnishing with parsley and lemon wedges. Alternatively, toss the shrimp scampi into a large serving platter for a family-style meal that encourages sharing and conversation. You could also add sun-dried tomatoes or capers to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor and color if you want to give this classic a personal twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta tastes great the next day when stored properly. Transfer the dish into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain moisture, consider stirring in a bit of olive oil before storing, which helps prevent the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp scampi is possible, but angel hair pasta may become mushy upon thawing. If you want to freeze, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta. Place shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, cooking fresh angel hair pasta to toss together right before serving.

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta, warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth as you rewarm to keep the sauce saucy and prevent the pasta from sticking. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to toughen shrimp and dry out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely and keeps the texture tender rather than watery.

What if I don’t have angel hair pasta? Can I substitute?

Yes, you can swap angel hair with thin spaghetti or linguine. They hold the sauce well and pair beautifully with shrimp scampi flavors, though angel hair’s delicate texture is ideal.

How spicy is Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta?

The recipe usually has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more, reducing, or skipping them altogether to suit your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional angel hair pasta contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free angel hair pasta varieties made from rice, corn, or other gluten-free grains to enjoy this dish without worry.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with extra olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. The sauce will still be flavorful and satisfying with that bright lemon and garlic profile.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting and zesty harmony found in Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or sharing a special meal with loved ones, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. So grab your skillet, gather these fresh ingredients, and dive into creating a dish that’s truly a joy to make and even better to eat. Once you try it, you’ll understand why Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is a dish worth celebrating again and again.

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