Introduction

Scampis marinated in lemon, garlic, and Espelette pepper is a delightful dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for any seafood lover. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and the mild heat of Espelette pepper creates a tantalizing marinade that beautifully enhances the sweetness of the scampis. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Scampis (prawns) – 500g
– Lemon – 2 (juiced)
– Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
– Espelette pepper – 1 teaspoon
– Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
– Fresh parsley – a handful (chopped)
– Salt – to taste
– Black pepper – to taste

Prep Time

Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes cleaning and deveining the scampis as well as preparing the marinade.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is about 5 minutes. Thus, the total time from start to finish is around 20 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it ideal for a small gathering or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the vibrant taste of marinated scampis accompanied by your favorite sides!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the juice of fresh lemons, minced garlic, and a pinch of Piment d’Espelette. Stir well to create a uniform marinade.

Step 2: Marinating the Scampi

Add cleaned scampi to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to ensure all the scampi are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Step 3: Heating the Pan

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly before adding any oil.

Step 4: Cooking the Scampi

Once the pan is hot, drizzle in olive oil. Add the marinated scampi to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden and opaque.

Step 5: Serving the Dish

Remove the scampi from the pan and serve immediately. They can be garnished with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Scampi Selection

Choose fresh scampi for the best flavor. If unavailable, frozen scampi can be used, but ensure they are thawed properly before marinating.

Note 2: Adjusting Spice Level

For those who prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Piment d’Espelette or eliminate it altogether.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

The scampi pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal.

Note 4: Marinating Time

While one hour is sufficient, marinating the scampi for longer—up to 4 hours—can enhance the flavor further. However, avoid marinating for too long, as the acid from the lemon can begin to ‘cook’ the scampi.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the scampi in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and Espelette pepper enhances the flavor and tenderizes the seafood.

Grilling

Grilling the marinated scampi gives it a smoky taste while retaining its juiciness, creating a delightful texture.

Sautéing

Sautéing the scampi quickly over high heat allows for a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside succulent.

Infusing flavors

Infusing the oil with garlic and spices before adding the scampi allows for deeper flavor integration throughout the dish.

Resting

Allowing the cooked scampi to rest briefly before serving helps redistribute the juices, ensuring optimum flavor and tenderness.

FAQ

Can I use frozen scampi for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s important to thaw them properly and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when marinating and cooking.

What can I substitute for Espelette pepper?

You can use paprika or crushed red pepper flakes as a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly.

How long should I marinate the scampi?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can let it sit for up to 2 hours for a more robust flavor.

What sides pair well with scampi?

Scampi pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a side of pasta to soak up the delicious marinade.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While the scampi is best served fresh, you can marinate it in advance and cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The marinated shrimp with lemon, garlic, and Espelette pepper create a deliciously vibrant dish, perfect for seafood lovers. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also allows for personal twists, making it versatile for various occasions.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Combine assorted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes brushed with olive oil and herbs for a colorful side dish.

Garlic Butter Pasta

Serve the shrimp over a bed of garlic butter pasta for a heartier meal, allowing the flavors to enhance each other beautifully.

Citrus Salad

Pair with a refreshing citrus salad featuring oranges, grapefruit, and avocado, drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the dish.

Rice Pilaf

Complement the shrimp with a flavorful rice pilaf, infused with herbs and spices to enrich the overall experience.

Chili Mango Salsa

Top the shrimp with a spicy mango salsa for an added burst of sweetness and heat, elevating the dish to new heights.