Cajun Shrimp Scampi
Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a vibrant and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines succulent shrimp with zesty Cajun seasoning, aromatic garlic, and a creamy sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and opaque (3-4 minutes).
- Create the sauce: Stir in lemon juice. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached for creaminess.
- Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot: Plate immediately and drizzle remaining buttery sauce on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: For added flavor, deglaze the skillet with white wine after sautéing the shrimp. Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for variations. Enhance freshness by adding a hint of lemon zest.