Garlic Shrimp Scampi: A Cast-Iron Delight
Who knew that shrimp could be so sassy? This Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe is here to prove that when shrimp meets a hot skillet, magic happens. Get ready to be seduced by the aroma of garlic and the tender, juicy shrimp that await.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave the tails on for a touch of elegance)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic is life)
1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine if you’re feeling fancy)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—dry shrimp means a better sear, and we’re all about that crust.
2. Heat olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until it’s golden and fragrant, but not burnt. Garlic is like sunbathing; a little is great, too much and it’s a disaster.
3. Turn up the heat, add the shrimp in a single layer, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp start to turn pink on one side, then flip them over like they’re sunbathing on the other side.
4. Add the chicken broth (or wine) and lemon juice, and let it simmer until the liquid reduces by half. This is where the sauce clings to the shrimp like a best friend.
5. Stir in the butter until it’s melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, creating a velvet cloak for our shrimp.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Because why not add a little zest to your life?
7. Serve straight from the skillet (carefully—it’s hot!) with slices of crusty bread. Because the only thing better than shrimp scampi is shrimp scampi you can mop up with bread.
And there you have it—a Garlic Shrimp Scampi so good, it’ll make you want to write a sonnet about it. Whether you’re looking to impress a date or just treat yourself, this dish has got you covered. Bon appétit!
Use the right cookware
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Using the right cookware is part of getting the recipe right. If you already have cast iron cookware, that is great! If you are looking to buy an iron pan, skillet or Dutch oven, compare offers from specialised brands on our comparison page. Enjoy the cooking process and the tasty meal!
