Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Delicious lobster and shrimp scampi served with garlic butter and fresh herbs on a plate.

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This Lobster Shrimp Scampi brings together sweet lobster and juicy shrimp in a tasty garlic butter sauce. Toss it with pasta for a yummy meal that’s great for special occasions.

Cooking this dish is easier than it seems! Just sauté, add some pasta, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to impress. Perfect for turning a regular night into something special!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Lobster: Use cooked lobster meat for convenience. If you’re short on lobster, crab meat can be a tasty alternative that still adds a sweet seafood flavor.

Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal, but if you can’t find them, medium shrimp or even scallops work well too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since smaller pieces will cook faster.

Pasta: I love using spaghetti or linguine, but feel free to swap for fettuccine or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just keep an eye on cooking times for non-pasta alternatives.

White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, use extra lemon juice and chicken broth as a substitute for a similar flavor profile.

Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control of the saltiness. You can also use margarine or a dairy-free substitute for those with dietary restrictions.

How Do You Cook Perfectly Tender Shrimp?

Cooking shrimp can be tricky because they can go from tender to rubbery in seconds! To make sure they stay juicy:

  • Start with a hot skillet and make sure not to overcrowd them. This helps them sear properly.
  • Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side—look for a pink color and curled shape as signs they’re done.
  • Remove shrimp from heat just as they turn pink, as they’ll continue to cook a bit after being taken off the heat.

Following these tips will ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked and pair wonderfully with your lobster and pasta!

How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Lobster Shrimp Scampi takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil together. Once hot, add in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.

3. Cook the Shrimp:

Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink color and are just cooked through. Once they are done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

4. Create the Sauce:

In the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice. Bring this to a simmer and let it reduce by half, which should take around 3-4 minutes.

5. Finish the Sauce:

Next, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts and the sauce is nice and smooth. This is where the flavor really comes together!

6. Add the Seafood:

Now it’s time to add the cooked lobster meat and the shrimp back into the skillet. Toss gently so everything gets coated in that delicious sauce, heating it through for another 1-2 minutes.

7. Combine with Pasta:

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce seems a bit thick, gradually add in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

8. Season and Garnish:

Stir in the chopped parsley, and season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a final toss to combine.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

Can I Use Frozen Lobster and Shrimp?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen seafood, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water to speed up the process. Pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta alternatives. They cook similarly, so just follow package instructions for the best results.

Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements ahead. Cook the pasta and make the sauce in advance, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove, adding fresh seafood just before serving.

What Should I Serve with Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. These sides complement the rich seafood flavors without overshadowing them!

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