Love Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi? Want to make it at home?
We’ve got you covered. This copycat recipe brings the restaurant’s flavors to your kitchen. Shrimp Scampi is a favorite at Olive Garden. It’s rich, garlicky, and buttery, paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta. Recreating this dish at home is simpler than you think.
With a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this classic meal without leaving your house. Plus, homemade means you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade Shrimp Scampi!
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Ingredients
Fresh shrimp, garlic, white wine, and lemon juice create the zesty base for the Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi. Add olive oil, butter, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Finish with angel hair pasta and parsley.
If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi, you’re in for a treat! Recreating this dish at home is not only satisfying but also surprisingly simple with the right ingredients. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering meal.Shrimp
Fresh shrimp is the star of this dish. You’ll want to use medium to large shrimp for the best texture. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease of cooking.Pasta
Linguine or angel hair pasta works perfectly for shrimp scampi. These types of pasta soak up the delicious sauce and pair well with the shrimp. Cook them al dente for the best results.Olive Oil
Good quality olive oil is essential. It adds a rich flavor that complements the shrimp and the sauce. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.Garlic
Garlic is a must-have for shrimp scampi. Freshly minced garlic brings out the best flavors. Don’t skimp on this ingredient; it gives the dish its signature taste.White Wine
A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce. Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. It enhances the flavors without overpowering them.Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick. It balances the richness of the butter and olive oil. You’ll be amazed at how this simple ingredient brightens the entire dish.Butter
Butter makes the sauce creamy and luxurious. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish. It also helps to thicken the sauce.Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch. It adds a savory element and a slight nuttiness. Sprinkle it generously for the best effect.Fresh Herbs
Don’t forget the fresh herbs. Parsley is a classic choice for shrimp scampi. It adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that ties everything together. Now that you know the ingredients, are you ready to cook up this delightful dish? Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making your shrimp scampi taste just like Olive Garden’s, if not better. Happy cooking!Preparation
Preparing a Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home can be a delightful experience. The key is to get the basics right, ensuring the shrimp, garlic, and herbs are prepped to perfection. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation process that will elevate your dish to restaurant-quality standards.
S Hrimp Cleaning
Start with fresh shrimp. Rinse them under cold water to remove any surface debris.
Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a restaurant-style presentation. This also adds a nice touch to the final dish.
Devein the shrimp using a small knife or a specialized tool. It’s a bit tedious but worth it for the clean taste.
Once cleaned, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them cook evenly.
Garlic Chopping
Fresh garlic is a must. It brings out the best flavor in your scampi.
Peel the garlic cloves. Use the flat side of a knife to smash them slightly; this makes peeling easier.
Chop the garlic finely. You want small pieces that will cook quickly and evenly without burning.
Consider using a garlic press if chopping isn’t your thing. It’s quick and keeps your hands from smelling like garlic.
Herbs Chopping
Fresh herbs make a world of difference. Grab some parsley and basil for this recipe.
Rinse the herbs under cold water and pat them dry. Excess water can make them soggy when chopped.
Chop the parsley finely. It adds a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color to your dish.
For the basil, roll the leaves together and slice them into thin ribbons. This technique is called chiffonade and looks great as a garnish.
Are you ready to bring Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi to your dining table? With these preparation steps, you’re well on your way to impressing your family and friends.
Cooking Shrimp
Cooking shrimp for the Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi recipe is essential. It brings out the seafood’s natural flavors. This step is simple but requires attention to detail. Fresh, high-quality shrimp make a significant difference.
Sautéing Shrimp
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking; it makes the shrimp tough.
Adding Garlic
Once the shrimp are cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it gently with the shrimp. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds. Do not let it burn. Burned garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the dish.
Deglazing With Wine
After adding garlic, deglaze the pan with white wine. Pour about 1/4 cup of wine into the skillet. The wine will sizzle and release the flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Stir everything together. Let the wine reduce for about a minute. This creates a rich, flavorful base for the shrimp scampi.
Making The Sauce
Making the sauce for the Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is the heart of the recipe. This step is crucial to achieve the rich, creamy taste that makes this dish a favorite. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends.
Combining Ingredients
Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This usually takes about a minute. Add white wine and chicken broth to the pan. Stir well to mix the flavors. Then, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Simmering
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes. This allows the alcohol in the wine to evaporate. The flavors will blend together beautifully. Simmering also helps to reduce the liquid, concentrating the taste. Keep an eye on the sauce to ensure it doesn’t boil over.
Thickening
To thicken the sauce, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. This will give the sauce a silky texture. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for a few more minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Finally, add butter and lemon juice. This will give the sauce a rich, tangy flavor.
Cooking Pasta
Enjoy the taste of Olive Garden at home with this shrimp scampi recipe. Quick, easy, and full of flavor. Perfect for any dinner.
Cooking Pasta is a crucial step in creating the perfect Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi. The texture and flavor of the pasta can make or break your dish. Here’s how to get it just right:Boiling Water
Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Using a large pot ensures the pasta has enough room to cook evenly. Salt the water like the sea for the best flavor. Boiling water means bubbles dancing all over the surface. Add the pasta to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Different types of pasta cook at different times, so keep an eye on it. Al dente means the pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Stirring helps avoid clumps and ensures even cooking.Draining Pasta
Once the pasta reaches al dente, it’s time to drain. Use a colander to remove the water. Shake off any excess water but don’t rinse the pasta. Rinsing pasta can wash away the starch that helps the sauce cling. A quick shake gets rid of extra water without losing the essential starch. Now, your pasta is ready to join the shrimp scampi. Cooking pasta might seem simple, but each step can impact the final dish. Have you ever noticed how perfectly cooked pasta can elevate a meal? What tricks do you use to get your pasta just right? Share your thoughts in the comments!Combining Pasta And Shrimp
Imagine the perfect plate of shrimp scampi. The shrimp is succulent. The pasta is tender. The dish is rich with garlic and butter. Combining pasta and shrimp creates a delightful meal. This copycat Olive Garden recipe brings that taste home.
Mixing Pasta With Sauce
Start by cooking your pasta. Use a large pot of salted water. Cook until al dente. Drain the pasta but save some pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot. Add your prepared sauce. Toss to coat each strand evenly. The sauce should cling to the pasta.
Adding Shrimp
Next, cook your shrimp. Use a large skillet on medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil. Place the shrimp in the skillet. Cook until pink on both sides. This should take just a few minutes. Do not overcook. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Tossing
Combine the shrimp with the pasta. Gently toss in the skillet. Ensure the shrimp and sauce mix well. Add a splash of pasta water if needed. This helps the sauce coat everything nicely. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade shrimp scampi.
Serving
Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi perfectly enhances the dining experience. The presentation can elevate the meal from good to great. This section will guide you through plating, garnishing, and adding cheese to make your dish restaurant-quality.
Plating
First, choose a large, shallow bowl or a wide plate. Place a generous portion of cooked pasta in the center. Arrange the shrimp on top of the pasta. Ensure each piece of shrimp is visible. This makes the dish look appetizing and professional.
Garnishing
Next, think about garnishing. Fresh herbs add color and flavor. Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the shrimp and pasta. A few lemon wedges on the side add a pop of color and a fresh aroma. For an extra touch, you can add a drizzle of olive oil.
Adding Cheese
Finally, adding cheese can enhance the dish’s flavor. Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top. Use a fine grater for delicate, fluffy cheese. This will melt slightly and blend with the scampi sauce. Avoid using pre-grated cheese, as it may not melt properly.
Credit: thegirlonbloor.com
Tips For Success
Preparing the perfect Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a few essential tips, your dish will be as delicious as the restaurant version. These tips will guide you through choosing shrimp, perfecting the sauce, and cooking pasta al dente.
Choosing Shrimp
Fresh shrimp make a big difference in flavor. Look for firm, translucent shrimp. Avoid shrimp with black spots or a strong odor. For the best texture, devein the shrimp before cooking. This also improves the overall presentation of your dish.
Perfecting Sauce
The sauce is the heart of the Shrimp Scampi. Use fresh garlic for a bold taste. Balance the flavors with lemon juice and white wine. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken. It should coat the shrimp and pasta evenly.
Cooking Pasta Al Dente
Cook your pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions but test the pasta a minute before the suggested time. Al dente pasta holds the sauce better and provides a satisfying texture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Have In It?
Olive Garden shrimp scampi contains shrimp, asparagus, tomatoes, angel hair pasta, garlic, white wine, lemon butter sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
Is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Healthy?
Olive Garden shrimp scampi can be a healthy choice. It contains shrimp, vegetables, and a light garlic sauce. Opt for whole grain pasta and control portion size for a balanced meal.
Can I Use Lime Juice Instead Of Lemon Juice For Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, you can use lime juice instead of lemon juice for shrimp scampi. Lime juice offers a similar tangy flavor.
Where Does Olive Garden Shrimp Come From?
Olive Garden sources its shrimp from sustainably managed fisheries and farms around the world. They prioritize quality and sustainability.
Conclusion
Enjoy making this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home. It’s easy to prepare, and tastes amazing. Your family will love the rich flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite.
Cooking at home can be fun and rewarding. Try this recipe today and impress your loved ones. Happy cooking!