Classic Shrimp Scampi is a delicious recipe of pan-cooked shrimp drenched in decadent garlic butter and lemon sauce. This simple shrimp dish is made in minutes and is best served over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping.
Thinly slice 2 of the garlic cloves and set aside. Mince the remaining 3 cloves into a large bowl and whisk with salt and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the shrimp to the bowl and gently toss to coat. Let chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large, preferably flat bottomed, skillet over medium heat. Carefully cook the shrimp until it becomes pink in the middle, about 1 minute per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Leave as much oil in the pan as possible.
Place the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes into the skillet and let cook until just fragrant. Add the wine (or broth) and lemon juice and cook, stirring occasionally until the liquid has reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Add the butter and cook until melted and the sauce thickens, about 5 more minutes. Pour over the shrimp.