Summer is the perfect time for light, flavorful dishes that capture the essence of the season's bounty. This Summer Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes and Corn is just that – a vibrant, delicious recipe that's surprisingly easy to make. Forget heavy winter sauces; this scampi is all about showcasing the sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, enhanced by the delicate sweetness of shrimp and a bright, zesty lemon-garlic sauce.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a romantic meal for two. Its fresh, summery flavors will transport you to a sun-drenched beach, even if you're enjoying it indoors. Let's dive in!
What Makes This Summer Shrimp Scampi Different?
Many scampi recipes rely on heavy cream or butter, resulting in a rich, decadent dish. While delicious in its own right, this version embraces the lightness of summer. We're using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a vibrant and refreshing meal, perfect for warmer weather. The addition of corn adds a touch of sweetness and satisfying texture that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Sauté Garlic and Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Corn: Add the halved tomatoes and corn to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften slightly.
- Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly. This adds complexity to the sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the Summer Shrimp Scampi immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding them to the skillet.
What kind of pasta goes well with this dish?
Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta are all excellent choices. The sauce clings well to these pasta shapes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best to enjoy this Summer Shrimp Scampi fresh, as the shrimp can become tough if reheated. However, you can prepare the tomatoes and corn mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply cook the shrimp and combine everything just before serving.
What are some substitutions for the white wine?
If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth or even just more lemon juice. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to experiment! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus would all be tasty additions to this dish. Just add them along with the tomatoes and corn.
Tips for the Best Summer Shrimp Scampi:
- Use high-quality shrimp: The flavor of the shrimp is key to this dish. Look for fresh, firm shrimp with a pleasant aroma.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it as soon as it's cooked.
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Summer Shrimp Scampi! The combination of sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and succulent shrimp is a true taste of summer. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out!
