Shrimp scampi is a beloved dish that is rich in flavors and simple to make. But what should you serve with it to make a complete meal?
Finding the perfect side dishes can improve your shrimp scampi dinner. This delicious seafood dish, with its buttery, garlicky sauce, pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you want something light or hearty, there are many options to enhance your meal.
From fresh salads to creamy pasta, the right accompaniments can balance and complement the rich flavors of shrimp scampi. Explore some tasty side dishes that will perfectly round out your shrimp scampi feast. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Classic Pasta Pairings
Shrimp scampi is a delightful seafood dish that pairs beautifully with pasta. The right pasta can elevate the shrimp and garlic butter sauce flavors. Here are some classic pasta pairings that complement shrimp scampi perfectly.
Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
Spaghetti aglio e Olio is a simple yet flavorful choice. This dish highlights garlic and olive oil, making it a natural companion for shrimp scampi. Thin strands of spaghetti wrap around the shrimp, ensuring every bite is delicious.
The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick. This pasta does not overshadow the shrimp, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Linguine With Garlic And Olive Oil
Linguine with Garlic and Olive Oil offers a slightly wider pasta option. The flat noodles capture the sauce well, enhancing each mouthful. The garlic-infused olive oil mirrors the flavors in shrimp scampi.
This pairing provides a harmonious blend, making it an excellent choice. The texture of linguine complements the tender shrimp, offering a delightful dining experience.
Hearty Rice Options
Choosing the right side dish can elevate your shrimp scampi meal. Hearty rice options are perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce. The following rice recipes will enhance your dining experience with shrimp scampi.
Lemon Herb Rice
Lemon Herb Rice adds a fresh and zesty flavor to shrimp scampi. The citrus notes complement the seafood, while the herbs add depth.
Here’s how to make it:
- Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
- Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of thyme and 1 teaspoon of basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Parmesan Risotto
Parmesan Risotto offers a creamy and luxurious complement to shrimp scampi. The richness of the Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add 1 cup of Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add 4 cups of chicken broth, one cup at a time.
- Stir continuously until the broth is absorbed.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lemon Herb Rice and Parmesan Risotto are delightful pairings with shrimp scampi. Enjoy the flavors and textures they bring to your meal.
Refreshing Salads
Refreshing salads make an excellent side dish for shrimp scampi. Their light, crisp flavors balance the scampi’s rich, buttery taste. Here are two refreshing salad options that pair beautifully with shrimp scampi.
Arugula Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette
An arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is a delightful choice. The peppery arugula and tangy lemon dressing create a refreshing contrast to the shrimp scampi.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, toss the arugula with the vinaigrette.
- Serve immediately.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad also pairs well with shrimp scampi. The creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce complement the scampi’s richness.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing.
- Toss well to coat the lettuce.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and croutons.
- Serve immediately.
Vegetable Medleys
When serving shrimp scampi, adding a vegetable medley can enhance the meal. Vegetables bring a fresh and healthy balance to the rich flavors of shrimp scampi. Here are some excellent choices to consider.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully with shrimp scampi. It’s natural sweetness and slight crunch complement the tender shrimp. Here is how you can prepare it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the tough ends of the asparagus.
- Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender.
Roasted asparagus is simple yet delicious. It’s a perfect side for shrimp scampi.
Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini offers a smoky flavor that enhances shrimp scampi. It’s easy to prepare and adds a nice texture. Follow these steps:
- Slice zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Brush each slice with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side.
Grilled zucchini is light and tasty. It makes a great addition to shrimp scampi.
Crusty Bread Choices
Choosing the right bread to serve with shrimp scampi can improve your meal. Crusty bread options enhance the flavors and offer a satisfying crunch. Here are two popular choices: Garlic Bread and Focaccia.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread pairs well with shrimp scampi. Its rich, buttery flavor complements the garlic in the scampi. You can easily make garlic bread at home. Just spread garlic butter on a baguette and bake until golden. The crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp. Serve warm for the best experience.
Focaccia
Focaccia is another excellent choice. This Italian bread is soft inside with a crisp crust. You can top it with rosemary, olives, or tomatoes, which add extra flavor to your meal. The airy texture of focaccia soaks up the scampi sauce perfectly. Serve it in slices or small squares for easy eating.
Decadent Potatoes
Shrimp scampi is a delightful dish full of flavor and zest. Pairing it with the right side dish can elevate your dining experience. Decadent potatoes are the perfect companion to shrimp scampi. Their creamy texture and rich taste make them a hit with everyone. Here, we explore two mouth-watering options: Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Herb-Roasted Potatoes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are creamy and full of flavor. They blend well with the garlic and butter in shrimp scampi.
- Start by boiling peeled potatoes until tender.
- Mash the potatoes with butter, cream, and roasted garlic.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
The roasted garlic adds a sweet, rich flavor, making the mashed potatoes irresistible. The creamy texture balances the lightness of the shrimp scampi sauce. It’s a match made in heaven.
Herb-roasted Potatoes
Herb-roasted potatoes are crispy and aromatic. They add a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Cut small potatoes into halves or quarters.
- Toss them with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.
- Roast in the oven at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes.
- Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
The herbs infuse the potatoes with an amazing aroma. The crispy exterior provides a perfect contrast to the tender shrimp. These potatoes are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Light And Fresh Fruits
Serving shrimp scampi with light and fresh fruits enhances its flavors. The tanginess and sweetness of fruits balance the rich taste of shrimp. Let’s explore two delightful fruit options.
Citrus Salad
A citrus salad offers a burst of flavors. Combine oranges, grapefruits, and lemons. Their tangy taste cuts through the garlic butter of shrimp scampi. Top the salad with fresh mint leaves for added freshness. A light drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oranges | 2, sliced |
| Grapefruits | 2, segmented |
| Lemons | 1, thinly sliced |
| Mint Leaves | Handful |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
Berry Medley
Another excellent option is a berry medley. Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The sweetness of the berries complements the savory shrimp. Toss the berries with a hint of lime juice for a refreshing twist.
- Strawberries – 1 cup, halved
- Blueberries – 1 cup
- Raspberries – 1 cup
- Lime Juice – 1 tbsp
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Serve chilled for the best experience.
Perfect Beverages
Choosing the perfect beverage to accompany your shrimp scampi can improve your dining experience. The right drink can enhance the flavors of the dish, making your meal more enjoyable. Below are some great options for beverages that pair wonderfully with shrimp scampi.
White Wine Selection
White wine is a classic choice for shrimp scampi. The crispness of white wine complements the buttery, garlicky flavors of the dish. Here are some excellent white wines to consider:
- Sauvignon Blanc: This wine has a zesty acidity that pairs well with seafood.
- Pinot Grigio: Its light and refreshing taste is perfect for shrimp scampi.
- Chardonnay: Choose an unoaked Chardonnay for a clean and crisp finish.
These wines bring out the best in your shrimp scampi, enhancing every bite.
Lemon-infused Sparkling Water
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, lemon-infused sparkling water is an excellent choice. It offers a refreshing burst of citrus that complements the rich flavors of shrimp scampi. Here’s why it’s a great option:
- Refreshing: The bubbles and lemon zest cleanse your palate.
- Light: It doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.
- Simple to Make: Just add a slice of lemon to sparkling water.
This drink is easy to prepare and enhances the meal without stealing the spotlight.
FAQs for What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi
What Sides Go Well With Shrimp Scampi?
Lemon garlic pasta, steamed asparagus, and roasted broccoli are great options. They perfectly complement the flavors of shrimp scampi.
Can You Serve Bread With Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, garlic bread or a crusty baguette pairs excellently. They help soak up the delicious scampi sauce.
What Vegetables Complement Shrimp Scampi?
Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts are ideal. They add color and nutritional value.
Are Salads A Good Match For Shrimp Scampi?
A fresh green salad or a Caesar salad works well. They add a refreshing contrast to the dish.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi pairs well with many delicious sides. From garlic bread to roasted veggies, options abound. Keep your meal light and tasty. Think salads, pasta, or rice. Mix and match to suit your taste. Enjoying shrimp scampi with these sides is easy and satisfying.
Experiment with flavors and create your perfect meal. Shrimp scampi becomes a feast with the right sides. Now, you’re ready to impress your guests. Enjoy your dinner and happy cooking!
