Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Craving Olive Garden’s famous Shrimp Scampi? You’re not alone.

This delicious dish is a favorite for many. Imagine enjoying this restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi. Perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal.

This copycat recipe captures the rich flavors and creamy texture you love. Ready to bring a taste of Olive Garden to your table? Let’s dive into the secrets of making this mouth-watering Shrimp Scampi at home.

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Ingredients List

Creating the perfect Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi starts with the right ingredients. Each component adds a unique flavor, making your dish taste just like the restaurant’s. Below, we break down the essential ingredients to help you achieve the best results.

Shrimp Selection

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial. Opt for large, fresh shrimp. Fresh shrimp has a firm texture and mild scent. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy smell. Frozen shrimp works well, too. Thaw completely before using.

Key Spices And Herbs

Spices and herbs make this dish special. Garlic is a must. Use fresh, minced garlic for the best taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. It gives a slight kick. Dried thyme and parsley are also essential. They add depth and aroma.

Butter and olive oil create a rich base. Lemon juice adds a fresh, tangy touch. White wine enhances the flavors. Choose a dry, crisp wine. Parmesan cheese finishes the dish. Use freshly grated cheese for a better taste.

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Preparation Steps

Start by marinating shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Then, cook the shrimp until pink and tender.

Preparing Olive Garden’s Copycat Shrimp Scampi at home can be a delightful experience. Getting the ingredients ready is crucial to achieving that authentic taste. Here’s how you can prepare the shrimp and vegetables perfectly.

Cleaning And Prepping Shrimp

Start with fresh shrimp. Frozen shrimp works too, just thaw them first. Remove the shells and devein the shrimp. Use a small knife to make a shallow cut along the back and pull out the vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Chopping Vegetables

Gather your vegetables – garlic, tomatoes, and parsley. Chop garlic finely. It should be almost like a paste. Dice tomatoes into small chunks. This will help them blend seamlessly into the scampi sauce. Finely chop parsley. Keep it aside for garnishing at the end. Preparing these ingredients may seem tedious. But trust me, it makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. Have you ever tried prepping everything before cooking? It’s a game-changer!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi with ease. Sauté shrimp, garlic, and white wine, then toss with pasta. Enjoy an Italian favorite at home.

### Cooking Instructions Cooking the Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes like it came straight from the restaurant. Let’s dive into the specifics. ### Sautéing the Shrimp To start, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp. Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery. ### Making the Sauce In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in half a cup of white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. This step adds depth to the flavor. Add a cup of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer. Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This gives the sauce a tangy kick. Finally, toss in cooked linguine and the sautéed shrimp. Mix well to coat everything evenly. ### Personal Experience I once tried this recipe for a family dinner, and it was a hit. The key is not to rush; take your time with each step. Your patience will pay off with a dish that everyone will love. Wouldn’t you love to see your guests’ faces light up when they taste this homemade delight? Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember, the secret lies in the details. Happy cooking!

Combining Ingredients

Combining the ingredients for Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi is a delightful process. This dish features succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a creamy sauce. Each step ensures the flavors meld together perfectly. Let’s explore how to mix shrimp with the sauce and then simmer it for maximum flavor.

Mixing Shrimp And Sauce

First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until it turns golden. Toss in the shrimp, making sure each piece is coated with garlic. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink. This should take about three minutes.

Next, pour white wine into the skillet. This deglazes the pan, lifting the flavors from the bottom. Add chicken broth and lemon juice for a rich, tangy base. Stir the sauce well. Ensure the shrimp are evenly covered with the mixture.

Simmering For Flavor

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. This step is crucial for deepening the flavors. The sauce thickens and becomes more aromatic as it simmers. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

After simmering for about 10 minutes, the sauce should be perfect. The shrimp absorbs the flavors, becoming even more delicious. Finally, add chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the shrimp scampi hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi can be a delightful experience. The right accompaniments can elevate the dish to a restaurant-quality meal. Here are some suggestions to make your shrimp scampi even more enjoyable.

Perfect Pasta Pairings

Classic linguine is an excellent choice. Its flat shape holds the garlicky sauce well. You can also try angel hair pasta. This thin pasta cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with shrimp. Fettuccine is another good option. Its wide noodles complement the shrimp and sauce beautifully.

Garnishing Ideas

Fresh herbs make a big difference. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color. Add a few lemon wedges on the side. They provide a fresh, zesty flavor. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch. Crushed red pepper flakes can also be sprinkled for a bit of heat.

Tips And Tricks

Discover how to make Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi at home. Follow simple tips for a delicious, restaurant-quality dish. Enjoy a flavorful meal without leaving your kitchen.

When you’re trying to recreate Olive Garden’s famous Shrimp Scampi at home, a few tips and tricks can make all the difference. Whether it’s ensuring your shrimp are perfectly cooked or enhancing the overall flavor of the dish, these insights will help you achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Avoiding Overcooked Shrimp

Overcooking shrimp can turn your delicious meal into a rubbery disaster. To avoid this, cook your shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on the size of the shrimp as well. Larger shrimp may need a bit more time, but always err on the side of caution. You can always cook them a bit longer if needed, but you can’t undo overcooked shrimp. Another trick is to cook shrimp in batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause uneven cooking. Give each shrimp enough space to ensure they cook evenly.

Enhancing The Flavor

For a truly flavorful Shrimp Scampi, don’t skimp on the garlic. Freshly minced garlic adds a robust flavor that’s essential for this dish. Aim for at least four cloves, but feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences. Lemon juice is another key ingredient. Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and complements the garlic and shrimp beautifully. Add a splash just before serving to enhance the overall flavor. Butter is your friend in this recipe. Use high-quality unsalted butter to create a rich, velvety sauce. If you’re watching your calorie intake, try using a mix of butter and olive oil for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Do you have any favorite spices or herbs? Fresh parsley is a classic addition, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you prefer a bit of heat. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi at home. What’s your secret ingredient for making this dish even better? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Nutritional Information

When preparing Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi, understanding its nutritional information is essential. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Below, we will explore the caloric content and health benefits of this savory meal.

Caloric Content

Olive Garden Copycat Shrimp Scampi has a balanced caloric content. A typical serving contains approximately 400-500 calories. This includes shrimp, pasta, and the rich garlic butter sauce. Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein. The pasta adds some extra calories, making it a satisfying meal.

Health Benefits

This dish offers various health benefits. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein. It helps build muscle and repair tissue. Shrimp also contains omega-3 fatty acids. These are good for heart health. Garlic in the sauce has antioxidant properties. It boosts the immune system and fights infections.

Parsley is another key ingredient. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. These vitamins promote healthy skin and bones. Lemon juice adds a fresh flavor and provides vitamin C. This vitamin is crucial for overall health and wellness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Have In It?

Olive Garden shrimp scampi includes shrimp, asparagus, tomatoes, angel hair pasta, garlic, white wine, lemon butter sauce, and Parmesan cheese.

What Is Shrimp Scampi Sauce Made Of?

Shrimp scampi sauce is made of garlic, butter, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, and parsley. It creates a savory and tangy flavor.

Is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Healthy?

Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi can be part of a healthy diet if eaten in moderation. It contains protein and vegetables but also has butter and pasta, which add calories and fats.

Where Does Olive Garden Shrimp Come From?

Olive Garden sources its shrimp from trusted suppliers. They ensure high quality and sustainability for the best dining experience.

Conclusion

Creating Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi at home is easy and satisfying. This recipe brings restaurant flavor to your kitchen. Fresh ingredients make it delicious and authentic. Enjoy the combination of shrimp, garlic, and pasta. Cooking this dish will impress your family and friends.

With these simple steps, anyone can enjoy a tasty meal. Try this recipe today for a delightful dining experience. Your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking and bon appétit!