Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Shrimp scampi should never feel fussy, and Olive Garden’s version keeps things straightforward while still tasting like you paid attention to the details!

Let the pasta finish cooking in the pan with the sauce—not in the pot—so it takes on more of that garlicky olive oil.

I press the garlic instead of mincing it, which makes it melt into the sauce better and leaves no harsh pieces behind.

Don’t walk away once you start this recipe—it moves fast and that’s part of the reason I enjoy making it.

Fresh parsley gives it a clean finish at the end, and I like to use linguine for a better bite than spaghetti!

How to Make Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients

• 8 oz Angel Hair Pasta
• 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 2 tsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup Asparagus (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup Cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the angel hair pasta until al dente.

Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water before you drain the pasta.

Step 2:

In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook until they turn pink (about 2-3 minutes per side).

Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same pan, add asparagus and sauté until tender-crisp.

Stir in minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat, and add cream to the pan while gently stirring.

Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Mix in the reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.

Step 5:

Return the cooked shrimp and pasta to the pan.

Toss everything together, adding salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Shrimp Selection

Select fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your dish.

Thaw frozen shrimp properly by placing them in the fridge a day before.

Pasta Perfection

Cook the pasta just until al dente for a firm texture that pairs well with the sauce.

Avoid overcooking as it will continue softening in the sauce.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to experiment by using spinach instead of asparagus if you prefer a different green.

This substitution still complements the dish beautifully.

Sauce Consistency

Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more cream if you find it too thick.

Alternatively, you can reduce the sauce longer for a thicker texture.

Freshness Factor

Always use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness and tang.

Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and may not provide the right balance.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

Fresh Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad is always a great choice when serving shrimp scampi.

Leafy greens with a variety of colorful vegetables add a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.

You can include tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

A light vinaigrette dressing complements the dish perfectly.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is another classic that pairs wonderfully with shrimp scampi.

Its crispy texture and buttery flavor make it ideal for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce.

You can prepare the garlic bread in advance to save time.

Roasted Vegetables

Consider serving roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, to add a healthy and tasty element to your meal.

The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness.

These veggies provide a great crunch that contrasts well with the tender shrimp.

Lemon Risotto

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making lemon risotto.

It’s a creamy and flavorful companion to shrimp scampi, enhanced by the zesty lemon flavor.

Risotto requires some attention while cooking, but the result is worth every stir.

Cauliflower Rice

For something a bit unexpected, serve cauliflower rice alongside your scampi.

This low-carb option is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare.

You can season it with herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers present an innovative and refreshing option.

They combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on a stick.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds an extra burst of flavor to this tasty side.

Zucchini Noodles

Last but not least, try zucchini noodles for a unique twist.

These veggie noodles are healthy and pair well with the garlicky sauce of the scampi.

Simply sauté the zucchini noodles lightly to maintain their texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Proteins

You can easily swap shrimp with chicken if you have a preference or if that’s what you have on hand.

You just need to ensure it is cooked thoroughly until it is perfectly tender.

Sauce Modifications

If you’re looking to reduce calories, consider replacing the cream sauce with a light broth or olive oil-based sauce.

Feel free to add lemon and fresh herbs for extra brightness.

Swap the Pasta

The traditional version calls for angel hair pasta, but any pasta works well.

Spaghetti or fettuccine can add a new texture and feel to the dish.

Change the Flavor Profile

If you are avoiding alcohol, use chicken broth instead of wine to add a hint of savory flavor.

For a bolder garlic punch, increase the number of cloves to suit your garlic-loving preference.

These variations help you tailor the dish to your tastes and dietary needs with ease!

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

Storing your leftover Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi properly is an easy process for any home cook, and you’ll be ready to enjoy it later!

Use Airtight Containers

First, you need to use an airtight container, which will help to lock in the flavors and keep other odors out of the dish.

Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the shrimp scampi.

Refrigeration Time Frame

You can usually keep your leftover scampi in the refrigerator for up to three days without any issues.

This time frame ensures your shrimp stays fresh while maintaining its delicious taste and texture.

Labeling and Dating

It’s a good idea to label your container with the date you stored the leftovers.

By doing this, you will know exactly how long it’s been in the fridge, ensuring you consume it within a safe time period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp

Nobody wants rubbery shrimp in their scampi.

It’s crucial to keep a close eye on the shrimp and cook them just until they’re pink and opaque.

Overcooking can ruin the texture, so time it right!

Incorrect Order of Ingredients

The sequence matters when you’re making shrimp scampi.

Always add the wine before the butter.

It helps incorporate the flavors smoothly without any mess from splattering.

Not Preparing Shrimp Properly

If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are defrosted well ahead of time.

Don’t forget to peel and devein them if it’s not done already.

Proper preparation is key to the dish’s success.