What do you cook with butter garlic and lemon if want to make scampi?

You're on the right track! Butter, garlic, and lemon are the classic trio for making delicious scampi. Here's what you'll need to make a basic scampi dish:

Ingredients:

* Shrimp: Use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined.

* Butter: Use unsalted butter for best control over the seasoning.

* Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is ideal, but you can also use pre-minced garlic from a jar.

* Lemon: Use fresh lemon juice. You'll also need lemon zest for extra flavor.

* White Wine (optional): A splash of dry white wine adds depth and complexity.

* Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor.

* Salt and Pepper: To taste.

* Olive Oil (optional): A small amount of olive oil can be used to prevent the butter from burning.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

4. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.

5. Add the Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.

6. Add White Wine (optional): If using, add the white wine and cook for 1 minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.

7. Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips for Success:

* Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it, which will make it rubbery.

* Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley make a big difference in flavor.

* Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.

Variations:

* Spicy Scampi: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

* Creamy Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.

* Lemon-Herb Scampi: Use a mixture of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary in addition to parsley.

Enjoy your delicious scampi!