Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dairy-free shrimp scampi delivers the same satisfying taste and texture of the original dish but without the heavy cream and butter. It’s light yet rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and a splash of white wine. The shrimp are perfectly cooked in a luscious olive oil-based sauce that perfectly complements pasta, rice, or vegetables. It’s simple, quick to make, and bursting with freshness – ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 ounces gluten-free pasta (or regular pasta, if preferred)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour in the white wine (or vegetable broth) and lemon juice. Stir, letting the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the shrimp and pasta in the sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if desired.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Shrimp Scampi: For a spicy twist, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Paleo-Friendly: Use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a low-carb or paleo-friendly version.
Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try using chicken or even tofu as a substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the shrimp may lose some of their tenderness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?

If you prefer not to use wine, vegetable broth works as a great substitute.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta, this dish can be made entirely gluten-free.

4. How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, typically taking around 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, but the pasta is best cooked just before serving to prevent it from getting too soggy.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta of your choice, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or regular pasta.

7. Can I add cheese to this dairy-free recipe?

Since the recipe is dairy-free, adding cheese would change the flavor, but if you’re not strictly avoiding dairy, you could sprinkle on a bit of vegan Parmesan or dairy-free cheese.

8. How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice depends on the amount of red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust it based on your preference for heat.

9. Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Yes, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe without pasta?

Yes, you can serve the shrimp scampi over rice, cauliflower rice, or even sautéed vegetables for a low-carb alternative.

Conclusion

This dairy-free shrimp scampi is a perfect example of how you can still enjoy a beloved dish without compromising on flavor. It’s quick, simple, and bursting with fresh ingredients that elevate the shrimp and pasta. Whether you’re dairy-free or just looking for a lighter dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Dairy-Free Shrimp Scampi

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Enjoy a lighter version of the classic shrimp scampi with this dairy-free shrimp scampi recipe. Bursting with fresh garlic, lemon, and shrimp, this recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions, offering a delicious, flavorful meal without the heavy cream or butter. Quick and easy, it’s the ideal dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour in white wine (or vegetable broth) and lemon juice. Stir and let simmer for about 2 minutes.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the shrimp and pasta in the sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if desired.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
For a paleo-friendly version, use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.