Shrimp Scampi

I love fancy-sounding and looking recipes that really take no time at all.  Don't you?

Shrimp Scampi
Recipe adapted from Ina Garten

1 lb (12 to 15 per pound) shrimp
1 1/2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp dry white wine
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 tsp minced garlic
1/8 cup minced shallots
1 1/2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, minced
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp grated lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 egg yolk
1/3 cup panko
Lemon wedges, for serving

1.  Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

2.  Butterfly the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl and toss gently with the olive oil, wine, salt, and pepper. Allow to sit at room temperature while assembling the butter and garlic mixture.

The makings for a simple, fantastic marinade

3.  In a small bowl, mash the softened butter with the garlic, shallots, parsley, rosemary, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice, egg yolk, panko, salt, and pepper until combined.

Flavortown!  Why yes, I do watch Guy Fieri on occasion

4.  Starting from the outer edge of a shallow, oval or round baking dish (think pie plate or gratin), arrange the shrimp in a single layer cut side down with the tails curling up and towards the center of the dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the shrimp. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the shrimp. 

The butter will melt away, leaving this amazing crust

5.  Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until hot and bubbly. If you like the top browned, place under a broiler for 1 minute. Serve with lemon wedges.

Ooooooooo.....

Now, this is the fancy schmancy version with the whole butterflying action.  If you making this to impress someone, totally go for it because it looks really cool.  However if you're pressed for time, tired, and dealing with cranky, screaming children, I'd just toss the shrimp around in the marinade as is (removing the tails first to make for easier eating later).  Just spread the shrimp in the baking dish in a single layer.

I think shrimp scampi is usually served with angel hair pasta.  A nice crusty loaf of bread works well with this too.  Throw in a lovely tossed salad and you absolutely have a gorgeous, company-worthy weeknight meal.  Enjoy!