Fast Fix {Shrimp Scampi}

Shrimp Scampi

the easy way

This is my all time favorite recipe for shrimp scampi. Between the ease in preparing it and the minimal ingredients this meal is a healthy solution to the traditional preparation 

Ingredients:

1-2 lbs. frozen or fresh uncooked shrimp. I thaw out and peel the frozen shrimp prior to preparing the meal but the peels may be left on for more flavor. 

1 package Whole wheat Orzo pasta

1/2 cube of butter divided into 2

3 chopped garlic cloves

1/2 lemon juiced

1/2-1 c. dry white wine (for non drinkers chicken broth may be substituted but it won't be as good)

A few dashes dry Italian seasoning but fresh chopped parsley is better!

1 tsp. fresh cracked black pepper

salt to taste

prepare orzo as directed on package,  remember whole wheat pastas take about twice as long to cook.Drain pasta and place in large serving bowl set aside until the shrimp are finished

In a skillet melt 1/2 of the butter over medium heat until it foams. Add shrimp, pepper, wine,and lemon juice. Once the shrimp are cooked remove them with slotted spoon and set aside. Add garlic and cook until the broth has reduced by about half and has thickened a bit. Add in remaining butter and salt and stir until the butter has melted. Return shrimp to pan and stir to coat. Pour shrimp mixture over orzo in serving bowl, crack some fresh pepper over the top to garnish and serve immediately. Usually I like to add fresh chopped parsley to this dish but today I did not have any so I added some dry Italian seasoning, not as good but will do in a pinch.

Dinner is ready in under 20 minutes prep and all!

Tonight I served it with asian carrot slaw as per request of my oldest.

the carrot slaw is super easy and delicious way to add a little color to your meal!

Asian Carrot Slaw:

6 carrots peeled and grated

2-3 stems green onion chopped

1 1/2 tbsp. sesame seeds I used black ones

1 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1/4 c. seasoned rice wine vinegar

pinch of sugar

salt to taste

Mix all of the ingredients together in bowl and allow salad to sit for 15-20 minutes before eating. Enjoy!

In the past I have made the pasta with fresh veggies and it is all the better but the best part of this meal is that I almost always have all of the necessary ingredients on hand. Any twist can be put on the pasta and it still always comes out as an amazing and healthy comfort food!

 I hope you give both recipes a try and let me know what kind of twist you put on them to make them to make them your own!

Peace and shrimp tails!