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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Crispy Capers

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A quick and flavorful shrimp scampi with a buttery garlic sauce and crispy fried capers that add a surprising crunch and salty burst.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 to 5 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the drained capers and fry for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic to the pan. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan. Let simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in the red pepper flakes if using, then return the shrimp to the pan. Toss gently to coat shrimp in the sauce and warm through, about 1 minute.
  7. Sprinkle the crispy capers over the shrimp and scatter chopped parsley on top. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve immediately, ideally over pasta, crusty bread, or buttermilk biscuits.

Notes

Dry shrimp thoroughly before cooking for a perfect sear. Fry capers separately to keep them crispy and avoid sogginess. Avoid burning garlic by stirring constantly over medium heat. Simmer wine and lemon juice to reduce and concentrate flavors. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; re-fry capers before serving to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic butter shrimp, crispy capers, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, seafood, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/garlic-butter-shrimp-scampi-recipe-with-crispy-capers-easy-and-flavorful/