Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe | Easy Homemade Dish

When you smell garlic and butter cooking, you can’t help but want an olive garden shrimp scampi recipe. This dish has been a favorite for years, loved for its tasty shrimp, wine, and creamy sauce. Now, you can make it at home with a simple recipe that tastes just as good.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the history and origins of the classic Shrimp Scampi dish
• Learn how Olive Garden perfected their signature Shrimp Scampi recipe
• Understand the essential ingredients and tools needed to recreate this iconic dish at home
• Gain tips on selecting and preparing the perfect shrimp for your Shrimp Scampi
• Master the art of creating the signature garlic wine sauce that defines this dish

The History Behind Olive Garden’s Famous Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is a favorite Italian-American dish. It comes from Italy’s coastal areas. But Olive Garden made it famous, turning it into a staple on their menu.

Origins of the Classic Italian-American Dish

The dish “scampi” comes from Italy. It’s about small, sweet shrimp from the Adriatic Sea. Italian immigrants brought it to the US, where it changed with American tastes.

Now, “scampi” means a dish with shrimp, garlic, and butter, served over pasta. This mix of Italian and American cooking created the shrimp scampi we love.

How Olive Garden Perfected the Recipe

In the 1980s, Olive Garden made Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi a key part of their menu. Their chefs worked on a version that kept the classic taste but added their own flair.

Olive Garden’s version has shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce, over pasta. Their focus on flavor and pasta texture has made it a hit.

Today, shrimp scampi olive garden recipe is a top choice at Olive Garden. It shows how the restaurant can make a classic dish their own.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

To make the perfect olive garden recipe for shrimp scampi at home, you need the right ingredients. From the shrimp to the pasta and herbs, each part is crucial. They all work together to bring the Olive Garden taste to your table.

Key Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi

• Jumbo or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Unsalted butter
• Minced garlic
• Dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Pasta Pairing

The best pasta for Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi recipe is linguine. But you can also use spaghetti or angel hair. Choose high-quality, al dente pasta for the best taste.

For an authentic olive garden shrimp scampi recipe, balance flavors and textures are key. With the right ingredients, you can make the Olive Garden experience at home.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

To make Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi, you need the right tools. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, the right utensils and cookware are key. They help you get that Olive Garden taste in your shrimp scampi.

Must-Have Cooking Utensils

• A sharp chef’s knife for dicing garlic and prepping other ingredients
• A sturdy wooden or silicone spoon for stirring the sauce
• A slotted spoon to transfer cooked shrimp from the pan
• A garlic press to effortlessly mince fresh garlic
• A zester or microplane for grating Parmesan cheese

Recommended Cookware

Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan for the best results. It ensures even heat and prevents overcooking the shrimp. A stainless steel or cast-iron pan is best for a perfect shrimp sear.

Special Equipment Tips

While not essential, some tools can enhance your how to make olive garden shrimp scampi. A digital meat thermometer helps cook shrimp perfectly. A pasta machine or spiralizer makes thin noodles for the scampi sauce.

With the right tools, you’re ready to make Olive Garden’s how to make olive garden shrimp scampi at home. Get your essentials and let’s cook!

Selecting and Preparing the Perfect Shrimp

Creating the perfect Olive Garden shrimp scampi starts with the shrimp. You need the freshest, most tender shrimp for this classic dish.

Choose shrimp that are medium to large in size. Sizes like 16/20 or 21/25 count per pound are ideal. They offer the right mix of tenderness and flavor.

Make sure the shrimp are as fresh as possible. Look for ones that are firm, have a bright color, and smell sweet and briny. Avoid shrimp that are discolored, mushy, or smell strongly of fish.

To prepare the shrimp, remove the shells but keep the tail. Use a sharp knife to devein them, removing the dark vein. This makes the shrimp look better and removes any grit.

Rinse the deveined shrimp under cold water and dry them with paper towels. This helps them sear and caramelize well in the pan, making your shrimp scampi perfect.

Creating the Signature Garlic Wine Sauce

Making the perfect Olive Garden-style shrimp scampi starts with the garlic wine sauce. This sauce is the dish’s heart and soul. Getting it right is key to that iconic Olive Garden taste at home.

Wine Selection Guide

Choosing the right wine is crucial for shrimp scampi sauce. Olive Garden uses a dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines offer a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, enhancing the sauce’s rich flavors.

Perfecting the Garlic Balance

• The right amount of garlic is essential. You want enough flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Use 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic per serving of the olive garden shrimp scampi recipe or copycat shrimp scampi.
• Sauté the garlic in butter or olive oil before adding wine. This releases its full aroma and sweetness.

Sauce Consistency Tips

The ideal shrimp scampi sauce is silky and coats everything evenly. To get it right:

1. Reduce the wine and garlic mixture by half to intensify the flavors.
2. Whisk in a tablespoon or two of unsalted butter to mix the sauce well.
3. If it’s too thin, thicken it with a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with water.

Mastering these garlic wine sauce elements will help you make the signature Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home is simple. Just follow these steps to make it in your kitchen.

1. Begin by getting the shrimp ready. Peel and devein them, keeping the tails on for a nice look.
2. In a big skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it smells great.
3. Pour in white wine, lemon juice, and olive garden recipe for shrimp scampi seasonings. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens a bit.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping them now and then. They should turn pink and look opaque.
5. Take the skillet off the heat and mix in chopped parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Right away, serve the how to make olive garden shrimp scampi over pasta. Add more parsley, lemon wedges, and Parmesan cheese for a real Olive Garden feel.

The secret to great Olive Garden shrimp scampi is balancing flavors and paying attention to details. Follow these easy steps to enjoy Olive Garden’s taste at home.

Pasta Selection and Preparation Tips

Choosing the right pasta is key for a great shrimp scampi dish. Whether you’re at Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi or making it at home, knowing the best pasta and cooking methods can make a big difference.

Best Pasta Types for Scampi

For shrimp scampi, long, thin pasta works best. It catches the garlic sauce well. Here are some top picks:

• Linguine: A thin, flat pasta that pairs well with shrimp and sauce.
• Spaghetti: A classic choice that blends flavors nicely.
• Angel Hair: Its delicate strands balance well with the shrimp.

Al Dente Cooking Guide

Getting the pasta just right is important for shrimp scampi. It should be al dente, not too soft. Here’s how to cook it perfectly:

1. Start with boiling salted water in a big pot.
2. Put in the pasta and set a timer 1-2 minutes before the package says.
3. Stir the pasta often to stop it from sticking.
4. Check the pasta’s texture a minute or two before it’s done.
5. Drain the pasta, save some water, and mix it with the shrimp scampi sauce.

Choosing the right pasta and cooking it just right makes your shrimp scampi dish a joy to eat.

Plating and Presentation Techniques

To make your shrimp scampi dish look like Olive Garden’s, focus on plating and presentation. After perfecting the shrimp scampi olive garden recipe, use these tips to make it visually appealing.

Portion Control

Keep the Olive Garden portion size in mind. Divide the shrimp scampi into 6-8 shrimp per serving. This makes the dish balanced and satisfying.

Garnish with Flair

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant pop of color.
• Garnish with lemon wedges to provide a refreshing citrus accent.
• Dust with a light coating of grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian touch.

Plating Presentation

Make the shrimp scampi look good on the plate. Arrange the shrimp in a circle around the plate’s edge. Let the sauce pool in the center. Serve the pasta neatly alongside or underneath the shrimp.

Using these plating and presentation techniques will make your copycat shrimp scampi look like Olive Garden’s. Impress your guests with a dish that’s not only delicious but also beautifully presented.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping the flavors of your olive garden shrimp scampi recipe fresh is crucial. Even after you’ve eaten, proper storage and reheating are vital. This ensures your leftover recipe shrimp scampi olive garden stays delicious.

Proper Storage Methods

Start by cooling your leftover olive garden shrimp scampi recipe completely. Then, put it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. Make sure to remove air to avoid freezer burn. Your recipe shrimp scampi olive garden can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Best Reheating Practices

To reheat your olive garden shrimp scampi recipe, use the stovetop. Put it in a skillet and heat it on medium, stirring now and then. Don’t microwave it, as it can make the shrimp tough.

Adding a bit of white wine or broth while reheating is a good idea. It brings the sauce back to life and keeps the shrimp moist.

Enjoying your leftover olive garden shrimp scampi recipe requires care. By following these tips, you can relish the taste of this classic dish even after the first time.

Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications

The classic Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe is loved by many. It’s also easy to change up to fit different tastes or needs. You can make it your own with a few tweaks.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

For a meat-free version, swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use tofu or plant-based proteins. This keeps the dish’s texture and flavor.

Gluten-Free Adjustments

To go gluten-free, use zucchini noodles or rice pasta instead of regular pasta. Make sure the sauce is gluten-free too, using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Spicy Variations

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a spicy twist. You can also use spicy paprika or cayenne pepper. This will give the dish a bold kick.

The shrimp scampi recipe olive garden is all about flexibility. With a few changes, you can make it fit your diet or taste. Try new ingredients and flavors to create your own olive garden recipe for shrimp scampi.

Conclusion

Preparing Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home is a fun journey. You’ve learned how to make this tasty dish by following simple steps and using key ingredients. This olive garden shrimp scampi recipe is great for both experienced cooks and beginners.

The secret to the shrimp scampi olive garden taste is in the mix of garlic, wine, and butter. You’ve learned how to get it right. From picking the best shrimp to making the sauce, every step is outlined for your success. With the right tools and practice, you’ll wow your loved ones with your homemade Shrimp Scampi.

Now you know the secrets of this favorite dish. Feel free to try new things and add your own twist. Try different pasta, adjust the garlic and wine, or add your favorite herbs. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy making it your own, savor the taste, and share it with your loved ones.