Enhanced Classic Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients

• Linguine (8 ounces)
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, plus more for pasta water)
• Dry white wine (1/2 cup)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the linguine and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. To the same skillet, add the lemon juice and white wine. Increase the heat slightly and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, gently tossing everything together until evenly combined. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately.