Few dishes are as light, flavorful, and satisfying as the Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi.
With its perfect combination of succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and angel hair pasta, this dish is an Olive Garden favorite that can easily be recreated in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, prepare a romantic dinner, or simply indulge in a delicious, homemade Italian meal, this Shrimp Scampi recipe is a must-try.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Olive Garden Menu Shrimp Scampi recipe step by step, discuss the best ingredients to use, provide pro cooking tips, and answer common questions about the dish. By the end, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
What Makes Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi So Popular?
1. Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
One reason why Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi is so loved is its use of fresh and high-quality ingredients:
- Jumbo Shrimp: Tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Angel Hair Pasta: Light and delicate, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: A flavorful base made with garlic, butter, and white wine.
- Cherry Tomatoes & Spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a slight sweetness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Brings in a salty, nutty finish.
2. Nutritional Benefits
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 590 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Tip: To make it even healthier, swap out regular pasta for zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike some Italian dishes that require hours of preparation, Shrimp Scampi comes together in under 30 minutes.
Example: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a gourmet meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
How to Make Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at Home
1. Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Jumbo Shrimp | 1 lb (peeled & deveined) |
| Angel Hair Pasta | 8 oz |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| White Wine | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken Broth | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp |
| Cherry Tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Fresh Spinach | 2 cups |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 tsp (optional) |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Parsley (for garnish) | 1 tbsp |
2. Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, then stir in lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 more minutes. Then, add fresh spinach and let it wilt.
- Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together. Add the drained pasta and gently toss to coat everything in the sauce.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley over the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tip: For extra richness, stir in an additional tablespoon of butter before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
1. Use High-Quality Shrimp
Fresh or frozen wild-caught shrimp works best for this recipe.
Example: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
2. Balance the Acidity
The combination of lemon juice and white wine creates a perfect balance of acidity and richness.
Tip: If you prefer a less tangy sauce, reduce the lemon juice slightly.
3. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks very quickly and becomes rubbery when overcooked.
Example: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Use Fresh Parmesan
Grate your own Parmesan cheese instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese for better flavor and texture.
5. Customize the Heat Level
If you love spicy flavors, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs About Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
1. Can I make Shrimp Scampi without wine?
Yes! Simply substitute the white wine with extra chicken broth or vegetable broth.
2. What’s the best pasta alternative for a low-carb version?
Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash work great as low-carb substitutes.
3. Can I prepare Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance to save time.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
5. What’s the best wine to pair with Shrimp Scampi?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion
Recreating Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home is easier than you think!
With simple, high-quality ingredients and a few expert tips, you can enjoy this restaurant-style dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this homemade Shrimp Scampi recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Next time you’re craving a light, flavorful pasta dish, skip the restaurant and try making Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi in your own kitchen. Let us know how it turns out!