Oh my goodness, are you ready for this?! Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Wilted Spinach – Simple & Tasty is about to become your new weeknight hero. I’m literally bouncing in my kitchen chair just thinking about it!
This dish is pure magic. It comes together in minutes but tastes like you spent hours. The garlic butter sauce alone will have you swooning. Come to Mama! If you’re looking for another quick dinner option, you should definitely try our hearty ground beef and potato hash for a comforting meal.
Recipe Overview
Let’s get the basics down so you know exactly what you’re diving into. This is your at-a-glance guide to scampi success!
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Do You Love This Recipe Too?
I first made this for a last-minute dinner party and it was an instant legend. My friends still text me for the recipe! It’s my go-to when I need a seriously impressive meal without any stress. The combination of juicy shrimp and that garlicky sauce is just unbeatable.
My Shopping List for This Recipe
I get so excited walking through the grocery store knowing these gems are going into my cart. Here are the rockstars you’ll want to grab for this dish.
Let’s Get Your Ingredients Ready
Okay, let’s line everything up. Trust me, having your mise en place makes the cooking process an absolute breeze.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
PREPARATION
This is where the fun begins! Follow these steps and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. Let’s do this! For a delicious brunch pairing, consider serving this with our elegant puff pastry croque madame.
- Pat your shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret step for a perfect sear! Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Remove them to a plate and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30-60 seconds until incredibly fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss it constantly in the sauce until it just begins to wilt. This happens quickly!
- Return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat it in that glorious sauce and heat through.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately over pasta, rice, zucchini noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that sauce. You’ve earned it!
Fun Variations to Try Next Time
Once you’ve mastered the classic, feel free to get creative! This recipe is a wonderful canvas for your own personal touch.
Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. Toss in some halved cherry tomatoes with the spinach for a pop of color and sweetness. Swap the spinach for kale or arugula for a different green vibe!
Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Wilted Spinach – Simple & Tasty Recipe
Let’s Get Your Ingredients Ready
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Wilted Spinach – Simple & Tasty Recipe!
Nutrition Information
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your scampi tasting fantastic.
Let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. I don’t recommend freezing this one, as the shrimp can become rubbery and the spinach too watery upon thawing. For a perfect frozen dessert to follow this meal, try our refreshing homemade peach sorbet.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Here’s a general breakdown per serving. Remember, this is just an estimate!
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
A Quick Q&A on This Recipe
I get asked these questions all the time, so I thought I’d answer them for you right here!
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted very dry before you start cooking. This is non-negotiable for that perfect sear.
What if I don’t drink alcohol?
No worries at all! You can easily substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. The flavor will be slightly different but still utterly delicious.
Is it really a quick dinner?
Yes! From fridge to table in about 25 minutes. It’s the definition of a quick and easy weeknight win that feels totally special.
I am just so thrilled for you to try this. It’s one of those recipes that never lets you down. The flavors are bright, bold, and so satisfying.
Every single time I make it, I’m reminded why it’s a staple in my home. I know it’s going to become a favorite in yours, too. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know what you think!
