Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops recipe

Let me tell you a little secret: I used to think scampi was… well, just okay. Perfectly acceptable, a decent restaurant choice, but never something that truly excited my palate. That was until I stumbled upon the magic of brown butter shrimp scampi with scallops. Oh. My. Goodness. This recipe is a complete game-changer. Imagine succulent shrimp and sweet, caramelized scallops bathed in a nutty, fragrant brown butter sauce, infused with garlic, white wine, and a hint of bright lemon. The aroma alone is intoxicating, filling your kitchen with promises of culinary delight. The first bite? Pure heaven. The richness of the brown butter, the tenderness of the seafood, the subtle tang of the wine and lemon – it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your tongue. My family, who are usually divided in their seafood preferences, unanimously declared this dish a winner. Even my youngest, who typically eyes anything from the sea with suspicion, devoured every last morsel. This isn’t just shrimp scampi; it’s an elevated, restaurant-quality experience that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a truly special weeknight meal, this brown butter shrimp scampi with scallops recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Prepare to fall in love with scampi all over again!

Ingredients: The Symphony of Flavors in Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi

The beauty of Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the rich, nuanced flavor profile that makes this dish so irresistible. Let’s explore the essential ingredients you’ll need to embark on this culinary adventure:

• Shrimp: 1 pound, large (16/20 count), peeled and deveined – Shrimp is a star of our scampi, providing a delicate sweetness and satisfying bite. Opt for large shrimp (16/20 count means about 16 to 20 shrimp per pound) for a substantial and impressive presentation. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease of cooking and enjoyment. Fresh or frozen (thawed completely) shrimp both work well – just ensure they are high quality.
• Scallops: 1 pound, sea scallops, patted dry – Scallops add another layer of luxuriousness and flavor complexity to the scampi. Sea scallops are preferred for their size and sweetness. It’s crucial to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before cooking. This step is key to achieving a beautiful sear and preventing them from steaming in the pan. Dry scallops brown beautifully and develop that delicious caramelized crust.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), divided – Butter is the foundation of our brown butter sauce, lending richness and nutty depth. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. We’ll be browning half of the butter to create that signature nutty flavor, and the other half will be added later for extra richness and shine.
• Dry White Wine: ½ cup (such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or dry Vermouth) – White wine adds acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter and complements the seafood beautifully. Choose a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even dry Vermouth. Avoid sweet wines, as they will clash with the savory flavors. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind the wonderful aromatic notes of the wine.
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced – Garlic is an indispensable aromatic in scampi, infusing the sauce with its pungent and savory flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely. Garlic and brown butter are a match made in culinary heaven, creating a deeply flavorful base for the seafood.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or to taste) – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice that balances the richness of the brown butter and seafood. Adjust the amount to your spice preference – you can add more for extra heat or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons – Lemon juice provides a crucial element of acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the butter and enhancing the flavors of the shrimp and scallops. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its vibrant and zesty flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness and herbaceousness to the dish, both in flavor and visual appeal. Italian flat-leaf parsley is recommended for its robust flavor. Chop it finely and use it as a garnish at the end to brighten the scampi.
• Salt: To taste – Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. Season generously throughout the cooking process, tasting and adjusting as needed. Sea salt or kosher salt are good choices.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste – Freshly ground black pepper adds a layer of spice and complexity. Grind it fresh right before adding it to the dish for the most aromatic flavor.
• Linguine or Spaghetti: 1 pound (optional, for serving) – While scampi is delicious on its own, it’s traditionally served over pasta. Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices that perfectly complement the sauce and seafood. You can also serve it with other pasta shapes like angel hair or fettuccine, or even over rice or polenta for a gluten-free option.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking scallops and shrimp) – Olive oil is used to sauté the scallops and shrimp before adding the brown butter sauce. It provides a neutral cooking medium and prevents sticking.

Ingredient Notes for Optimization:

• Seafood Quality: Emphasize the importance of fresh, high-quality shrimp and scallops for the best flavor and texture. Discuss options for buying fresh vs. frozen and how to select the best seafood.
• Butter Type: Specify unsalted butter and explain why it’s preferred. Briefly mention salted butter as an alternative and how to adjust salt in the recipe if using it.
• Wine Choice: Provide specific examples of dry white wines that work well and explain why dry wines are essential. Suggest dry Vermouth as a less common but excellent alternative.
• Fresh Herbs: Highlight the importance of fresh parsley and lemon juice for brightness. Mention that dried parsley is not a suitable substitute for fresh in this recipe.
• Pasta Alternatives: Offer suggestions for serving the scampi with various pasta shapes, rice, polenta, or even crusty bread to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.

Instructions: Crafting Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops, Step-by-Step

Now, let’s move on to the exciting part – cooking! Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create your own restaurant-worthy Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops:

1. Prepare the Scallops and Shrimp: Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels. Season both the scallops and shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the brown butter sauce. Ensuring the seafood is dry is crucial for achieving a good sear.
2. Brown the Butter: In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, melt ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter. Continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter foams, then subsides, and the milk solids at the bottom of the pan turn a light golden brown and emit a nutty aroma. This process takes about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter – watch it closely and remove from heat immediately once it reaches a light brown color and smells nutty. The color change is subtle but important.
3. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Once the butter is browned, immediately add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. The residual heat of the brown butter will cook the garlic quickly.
4. Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the white wine (or dry Vermouth) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (these are called fond and are packed with flavor). Let the wine reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate.
5. Cook the Scallops: In a separate large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the patted-dry and seasoned scallops to the hot pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary). Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and caramelized on the outside and just cooked through in the center. They should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Remove the seared scallops from the pan and set aside.
6. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet used for the scallops, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Shrimp cook very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, or they will become rubbery. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.
7. Combine and Finish the Scampi: Pour the brown butter sauce (from the first skillet) into the skillet used to cook the scallops and shrimp (you don’t need to clean it – those flavorful bits are welcome!). Return the seared scallops and cooked shrimp to the pan with the brown butter sauce. Add the remaining ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter to the pan and stir until melted and emulsified into the sauce, creating a rich and glossy finish. This step adds extra richness and binds the sauce beautifully.
8. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The lemon juice brightens the sauce, and the parsley adds freshness.
9. Serve Immediately: Serve the Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops immediately over linguine or spaghetti, if desired. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, when the seafood is tender and the sauce is at its peak flavor.

Instruction Notes for Clarity and SEO:

• Detailed Steps: Break down each step into clear, concise instructions. Use action verbs and provide specific times and visual cues (e.g., “golden brown,” “fragrant”).
• Key Techniques Highlighted: Emphasize important techniques like patting scallops dry, browning butter correctly, and searing seafood. Explain why these steps are important for success.
• Timing Guidance: Provide approximate cooking times for each component, but remind users to adjust based on their stovetop and pan.
• Ingredient Order: Explain the order of adding ingredients and why it matters (e.g., browning butter first, then garlic).
• Serving Suggestion Reminder: Reiterate the serving suggestion over pasta (optional) and garnish recommendations.

Nutrition Facts: A Glance at the Goodness in Each Serving

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Please note that the following nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and any additions or substitutions.

Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately ¼ of the recipe, without pasta)

(Approximate values per serving of scampi without pasta):

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 20-25 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 300-350 mg
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (depending on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams (primarily from wine and garlic)
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: (Significant amount, beneficial from seafood and butter)
• Vitamin D: (Good source, especially from scallops)
• Vitamin B12: (Excellent source, from seafood)
• Selenium: (Excellent source, from seafood)

Important Considerations:

• Pasta Addition: Adding pasta will significantly increase the carbohydrate and calorie content of the meal. A typical serving of pasta can add an additional 200-300 calories and 40-60 grams of carbohydrates.
• Butter Content: Brown butter scampi is a rich dish due to its butter content. Individuals watching their fat intake should be mindful of portion sizes.
• Seafood Benefits: Shrimp and scallops are excellent sources of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. This dish provides a good source of these beneficial nutrients.
• Sodium Level: The sodium content can be moderate due to the salt added for seasoning and naturally occurring sodium in seafood. Adjust salt to taste and consider using low-sodium options if needed.

Nutrition Fact Notes for SEO and User Benefit:

• Approximate Values Disclaimer: Clearly state that these are estimates and can vary.
• Serving Size Clarity: Specify the serving size (¼ of the recipe without pasta in this case) for accurate interpretation. Mention the impact of adding pasta.
• Highlight Key Nutrients: Focus on macro-nutrients (calories, protein, fat, carbs) and relevant micro-nutrients (omega-3s, Vitamin D, B12, Selenium). Emphasize the nutritional benefits of seafood.
• Fat and Sodium Awareness: Acknowledge the higher fat content due to butter and moderate sodium levels.
• Dietary Adaptation Tips: Suggest ways to modify the recipe for lower fat or lower carb options (e.g., serving over zucchini noodles, using less butter – though this will impact the brown butter flavor).

Preparation Time: From Kitchen to Table in Under 30 Minutes

One of the wonderful aspects of Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops is its speed and efficiency. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something impressive and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (This includes peeling shrimp, patting scallops dry, mincing garlic, chopping parsley, browning butter – which is part of prep).
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (Sautéing scallops and shrimp, reducing wine sauce, combining and finishing).
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Time Breakdown:

• Active Time: Approximately 25 minutes (almost entirely active, as the cooking process is quick and requires attention).
• Inactive Time: Minimal to none.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-prepped Ingredients: Purchase pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save time. You can also mince garlic and chop parsley in advance (though fresh is always best just before cooking).
• Efficient Cooking: The recipe is designed to be quick-cooking. Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
• Simultaneous Tasks: While the butter is browning, you can prep the rest of your ingredients. While the wine is reducing, you can start cooking the pasta (if serving with pasta).

Preparation Time Notes for SEO and User Benefit:

• Highlight Speed: Emphasize the “quick,” “fast,” and “easy” nature of the recipe in headings and throughout the text.
• Detailed Time Breakdown: Separate prep time and cook time for clarity. Include total time for a quick overview.
• Time-Saving Strategies: Offer practical tips for reducing prep and cook time, appealing to busy individuals seeking fast gourmet meals.

How to Serve: Plating and Pairing Your Brown Butter Scampi Masterpiece

Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops is elegant and versatile, lending itself to various serving styles and pairings. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Pasta Presentation: Serve the scampi immediately over a bed of hot linguine or spaghetti. Toss the pasta with a little of the scampi sauce to coat it beautifully. This is the traditional and most satisfying way to enjoy scampi.
• Elegant Plating: For a more refined presentation, arrange the pasta on plates, then artfully spoon the scampi over the top, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion of shrimp and scallops. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side.
• Bread Basket Essential: Serve with crusty bread, such as baguette slices or ciabatta, for soaking up every last drop of the delicious brown butter sauce. Garlic bread would be an especially decadent accompaniment.
• Seafood Feast Platter: Incorporate the scampi as part of a larger seafood platter. Surround it with other grilled or pan-seared seafood, like mussels, clams, or calamari, for a stunning and impressive spread.
• Bowls for Comfort: Serve in shallow bowls for a more casual and comforting presentation. This works especially well for weeknight dinners.

Side Dish Pairings:

• Classic Sides:
  • Garlic Bread: A natural pairing, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the scampi.
  • Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: Simple steamed green vegetables offer a healthy and complementary side.
  • Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a light and Italian-inspired side.
  • Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a flavorful appetizer or side.
• Healthy Sides:
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a lower-carb option, serve the scampi over zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
  • Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower: Roasted vegetables provide a hearty and nutritious side.
  • Spinach Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light and vibrant spinach salad complements the richness of the scampi.
  • Quinoa or Couscous: Grains like quinoa or couscous offer a healthier alternative to pasta.
  • Artichoke Hearts (Grilled or Marinated): Artichoke hearts provide a unique and flavorful side dish.
• Unique Sides:
  • Lemon Risotto: For an extra indulgent meal, pair the scampi with a creamy lemon risotto.
  • Saffron Rice: Saffron rice adds a touch of elegance and unique flavor.
  • Roasted Garlic and Herb Potatoes: Roasted potatoes provide a heartier and more rustic side.
  • White Bean Salad with Herbs and Lemon: A Mediterranean-inspired white bean salad is a refreshing and flavorful option.
  • Grilled Pineapple Salsa: For a surprising and tropical twist, serve with a grilled pineapple salsa.

Serving Notes for SEO and User Engagement:

• Variety of Serving Styles: Offer diverse serving suggestions, from classic pasta presentation to elegant plating and casual bowls.
• Categorized Side Dishes: Group side dish pairings into classic, healthy, and unique categories for easy browsing and inspiration.
• Visual Appeal: Mention presentation tips like garnishing with parsley and lemon wedges to enhance visual appeal.
• Occasion Versatility: Highlight that scampi is suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and more special occasions.
• Flavor Pairing Emphasis: Explain why certain side dishes complement the flavors of the brown butter scampi.

Additional Tips for Brown Butter Scampi Perfection: Elevate Your Dish

Ready to take your Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops to the next level? Here are five essential tips to ensure culinary success every time:

1. Master the Brown Butter: Browning butter is the heart of this recipe. Pay close attention to the butter as it melts and cooks. Swirl the pan frequently and watch for the color change – it should become a light golden brown, and you’ll smell a distinct nutty aroma. Remove it from the heat immediately when it’s ready to prevent burning, which will make it bitter. Low and slow is better than high heat for browning butter.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the scallops and shrimp, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature and causes the seafood to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning and less flavor. A hot pan and ample space are key for achieving a beautiful sear.
3. Use Dry Seafood: Patting the scallops and shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels before searing is crucial. Excess moisture will prevent proper browning and caramelization. Dry seafood sears beautifully and develops a delicious crust, enhancing both flavor and texture.
4. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Season the scallops and shrimp generously before cooking, and taste and adjust the seasoning of the final sauce. Salt is essential for bringing out the flavors of the seafood and the brown butter sauce.
5. Serve Immediately: Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. The seafood is at its peak tenderness, and the sauce is at its most luscious and flavorful. If you wait too long, the seafood can become slightly rubbery, and the sauce may lose some of its sheen.

Tip Notes for SEO and User Value:

• Actionable Advice: Provide practical and easy-to-implement tips that users can immediately apply to improve their scampi-making skills.
• Technique-Focused: Focus on essential cooking techniques like browning butter, searing seafood, and seasoning properly. Explain why these techniques are important.
• Problem Prevention: Address potential pitfalls like burning butter, overcrowding the pan, and using wet seafood, and offer solutions.
• Emphasize Freshness: Stress the importance of serving the dish immediately for the best quality.

FAQ: Your Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi Questions Answered

Curious about some aspects of making Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi with Scallops? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you become a scampi expert:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and scallops. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. For best results, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Pat them very dry after thawing to remove excess moisture, which is even more crucial with previously frozen seafood to ensure proper searing.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While the scampi is best served immediately, you can prep some components ahead. You can peel and devein the shrimp, pat dry the scallops, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley in advance. However, it’s recommended to cook the scampi just before serving for the best flavor and texture of the seafood and sauce. Reheating cooked seafood can sometimes make it rubbery.

Q3: What if I don’t have white wine? Can I substitute anything else?

A: If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute dry Vermouth, which works very well. In a pinch, you can use chicken broth or seafood broth, but the flavor will be slightly different and less acidic. Adding a splash of extra lemon juice might help compensate for the missing acidity from the wine if using broth.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without scallops?

A: Yes, you can absolutely make Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi without scallops. Simply double the amount of shrimp to 2 pounds. The recipe will still be delicious with just shrimp. However, the scallops do add a unique sweetness and texture that elevates the dish.

Q5: How do I store leftover Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi?

A: Store leftover Brown Butter Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the seafood from drying out. Be mindful that reheating seafood can sometimes slightly alter its texture.

FAQ Notes for SEO and User Assistance:

• Address Common Questions: Anticipate frequently asked questions that users might have when making scampi.
• Provide Practical Answers: Offer clear, concise, and helpful answers to each question, addressing potential substitutions, make-ahead concerns, and storage.
• Cover Key Concerns: Address questions about ingredient substitutions (frozen seafood, wine alternatives), make-ahead tips, and storage instructions.
• Boost User Confidence: Reassure users that scampi making is adaptable and address potential challenges proactively.

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