Fish Scampi Recipe Easy and Delicious Dinner Idea

Fish scampi is a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American shrimp scampi, replacing shrimp with tender, flaky fish fillets that soak up the luscious garlic butter sauce beautifully. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a light yet flavorful dinner that comes together quickly and effortlessly.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, fish scampi offers a sophisticated taste without the fuss. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and parsley creates a bright and zesty flavor profile that elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.

What makes fish scampi truly special is its versatility. You can use white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia, and the sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

This dish is not only packed with protein but also incredibly satisfying and elegant, making it a go-to recipe for seafood lovers and beginners alike. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it your next favorite dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fish scampi is a fantastic way to enjoy seafood with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The buttery garlic sauce is rich yet light, perfectly complementing the mild taste of the fish.

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Additionally, it is highly adaptable—swap the fish or adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste. The vibrant lemon and parsley add freshness that balances the richness of the butter, providing a well-rounded dish.

Finally, the recipe uses simple pantry staples, so you don’t need to make a special trip to the store.

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Equipment

• Large skillet (preferably non-stick or stainless steel)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Lemon juicer (optional)
• Colander (if serving with pasta)

Instructions

1. Prepare the fish: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the skillet: Over medium heat, add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely and the oil to shimmer.
3. Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic will give a bitter taste, so watch carefully.
4. Add the fish: Carefully place the fish pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Cook without stirring for about 2 minutes to get a slight sear, then gently flip and cook the other side for 2 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
5. Deglaze and flavor: Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add lemon and remaining butter: Stir in the lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another minute until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Finish with parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the fish. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
8. Serve immediately: Transfer the fish scampi to plates and serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and fresh parsley. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes gradually.”

• Fish choice: While white fish is traditional, you can also use salmon or trout for a richer taste.
• Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or thyme for a different herbal note.
• Butter substitute: Use ghee or olive oil if you want a dairy-free version.
• Serving ideas: Toss cooked linguine or angel hair pasta directly in the skillet to coat with sauce before serving.
• Make it a one-pan meal: Add halved cherry tomatoes or spinach to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This fish scampi pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Consider serving it over a bed of angel hair pasta or alongside steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans.

A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully.

For a heartier meal, serve with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes to soak up the buttery sauce. Don’t forget a wedge of crusty bread to mop up every last drop!

Conclusion

Fish scampi is an elegant yet simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of succulent fish, garlic, lemon, and butter creates a perfect balance of richness and brightness that is sure to impress.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.

By following these easy steps and using fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and serving ideas to make this recipe your own.

Happy cooking!

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