Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors, and this Summer Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes and Corn recipe delivers just that! This dish is a delightful twist on the classic scampi, incorporating the sweetness of summer corn and the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes for a light yet satisfying meal. It's quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, flavorful masterpiece.
What Makes This Summer Shrimp Scampi Unique?
This recipe stands out from traditional scampi recipes by embracing the bounty of summer produce. Instead of relying solely on butter and garlic (though those are still key!), we add the sweetness of fresh corn kernels and the acidity of ripe tomatoes. This creates a more complex and refreshing flavor profile, perfect for warmer weather. The addition of these ingredients also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dish, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better when cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Garlic and Corn: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the corn and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp.
- Add Tomatoes and Wine: Stir in the halved tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly. If using white wine, add it now and let it simmer for a minute or two, until slightly reduced.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
- Finish with Butter and Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter until melted and creamy. Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the Summer Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired. This dish is delicious served over pasta, rice, or simply on its own.
How Long Does Shrimp Scampi Take to Cook?
The cooking time for this shrimp scampi recipe is relatively quick, taking approximately 10-15 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What Kind of Pasta Goes Well with Shrimp Scampi?
Linguine, spaghetti, and angel hair pasta are all excellent choices to pair with this Summer Shrimp Scampi. The sauce clings beautifully to these pasta shapes.
Is Shrimp Scampi Healthy?
Shrimp is a lean protein source, and this recipe incorporates plenty of vegetables, making it a relatively healthy meal option. However, the use of butter and oil should be kept in mind if you're strictly monitoring your fat intake.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other summer vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
This Summer Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes and Corn is a delicious and versatile recipe that's perfect for showcasing the best of summer's bounty. Enjoy!
