This lobster shrimp scampi is a tasty dish packed with juicy shrimp and sweet lobster pieces, all tossed in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s like a party on your plate!
When I make this dish, I feel like a fancy chef! I love serving it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish! You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them if frozen. If you need a substitution, scallops or crab meat can work too.
Lobster: Cooked lobster adds a sweet flavor. If lobster is out of budget or not available, you can substitute it with more shrimp or even crab—it’s still delicious!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives great control over the seasoning. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace some butter with olive oil or even use a vegan butter substitute.
White Wine: A dry white wine lends great depth to the sauce. If you want to avoid alcohol, use chicken broth or vegetable broth with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates the best flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder may work, but fresh is always better!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right is key for a great dish. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery, so watch them close. Here’s how:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat with oil and butter.
- Add shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 2 minutes on each side.
- Look for a vibrant pink color and opaque texture; that means they’re ready. Remove immediately from heat!
Following these steps will ensure your shrimp are juicy and tender. Remember, once you take them off the heat, they’ll keep cooking a little from residual heat!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Silky?
The sauce is what brings all the flavors together beautifully. Here’s how to achieve that silky texture:
- After sautéing garlic, add wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer—it helps to enhance the flavor.
- Once reduced, lower the heat and slowly stir in cold butter. This helps the sauce emulsify and gives it that creamy texture.
- Finish by coating the shrimp and lobster gently. Don’t rush; let every piece get that lovely sauce!
With just these tips, you’ll have a stunning Lobster Shrimp Scampi that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lobster Shrimp Scampi takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick yet impressive, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it melt and come together—a lovely aroma will fill your kitchen!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown—browned garlic can taste bitter.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and are just cooked through. Once ready, remove the shrimp and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to concentrate.
5. Create a Silky Sauce:
Now, lower the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Swirl it around until it’s completely melted, creating a nice, silky sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the lobster meat and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss them in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes until everything is nicely coated and warmed through.
7. Finish It Off:
Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is where your dish gets its fresh, vibrant flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your indulgent Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately, over cooked pasta or with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up that delicious garlic butter sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp and Lobster for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely beforehand. You can thaw shrimp or lobster in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent extra moisture in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you’d prefer to avoid wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Simply add a splash of lemon juice for that necessary acidity to keep the sauce balanced and flavorful.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Dish?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like thyme or basil along with the parsley. You could also add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a cheesy touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and to avoid overcooking the seafood.
