Description

This Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe features juicy shrimp cooked in a luscious, buttery (plant-based) sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes, it is a flavorful, light, and protein-rich dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal bursting with vibrant freshness and balanced textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Main Ingredients

1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
3–4 garlic cloves, freshly minced
2 tablespoons plant-based butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving

Pasta, rice, or crusty bread, as desired

Optional Variations

Zucchini noodles as a low-carb alternative
Smoked turkey bacon, chopped
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Fresh basil, chopped (can substitute parsley)
A splash of grape juice (natural) for subtle sweetness

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Rinse briefly in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp absorb the garlicky sauce beautifully.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and lightly golden, about one minute, taking care not to burn it. This releases the garlic’s full flavor and infuses the oil.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about another 1-2 minutes. Keep a close watch to avoid overcooking.
Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in plant-based butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything gently to coat the shrimp, allowing them to soak up the tangy, garlicky sauce evenly.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. The herbs brighten the dish visually and add fresh layered flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Notes

Pat shrimp very dry before cooking to ensure they sear evenly instead of steaming.
Avoid overcooking shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
Opt for quality olive oil to enhance the garlic and add depth to the sauce.
Have all ingredients prepped and ready before cooking as the process moves quickly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic shrimp, lemon shrimp, quick dinner, plant-based butter, easy seafood recipe, low-carb shrimp, protein-rich meal