Calling all pasta lovers! This Shrimp Scampi with a Mandarin Orange Twist is a flavor explosion waiting to happen. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe takes classic shrimp scampi and adds a surprising burst of sweetness with mandarin oranges. It’s a delightful combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Here’s what makes this dish so special:
- Plump, Juicy Shrimp: You can choose your favorite size, but this recipe uses large shrimp for a satisfying bite.
- Flavorful Oil Base: Garlic and chili oil infuse the dish with a delicious aroma and a hint of spice.
- Creamy Dream: Heavy whipping cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly.
- Unexpected Sweetness: Mandarin oranges add a delightful sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Ready to whip up this flavor fiesta? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients (for 6 servings):
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled, deveined)
- 12 oz Pasta (your choice, medium egg style recommended)
- 1 Cup Mandarin Oranges (drained, mandarin wedges recommended)
- 4 oz Sliced Shiitake Mushrooms
- 4 oz White Wine
- 2 oz Green Onion (sliced)
- 3 Tbsp Herbs N Oil (Chile Oil)
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp White Pepper
- 1/4 tsp Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- Parmesan Cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Gather all your ingredients before you start. Peel, devein and wash the shrimp. Pat them dry, then toss them in a bowl with chili oil, garlic, and soy sauce. Set aside to marinate.
- Slice it up! Thinly slice your green onion and mushrooms. Drain the mandarin oranges, reserving some of the juice for later.
- Shrimp time! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and mushrooms, and cook for 2 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the mushrooms are softened.
- Wine and dine! Pour in the white wine and add your chosen pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring gently.
- Thicken things up (optional)! If your sauce seems too thin, use a whisk to mix some cornstarch with the reserved mandarin orange juice to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pan, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Flavor frenzy! Season the dish with the salt, pepper, and brown sugar mixture. Finally, toss in the drained mandarin orange wedges.
- Presentation perfection! Plate your delicious creation and garnish with sliced green onion and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Success:
- Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust the sauce thickness to your preference by adding more or less of the cornstarch slurry.
So there you have it! This shrimp scampi with a mandarin orange twist is a quick, easy, and oh-so-flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1084
- Total Fat:8g (83% DV)
- Saturated Fat:3g (81% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate:3g (37% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% DV)
- Total Sugars:3g
- Protein:5g
- Cholesterol: 197mg (66% DV)
- Sodium: 285mg (12% DV)
- Calcium: 135mg (10% DV)
- Iron: 5mg (28% DV)
- Potassium: 711mg (15% DV)
- Vitamin D: 17mcg (87% DV)