What To Serve With Shrimp Scampi – 15 Mouthwatering Sides
What To Serve With Shrimp Scampi – 15 Mouthwatering Sides
Shrimp scampi is a popular Italian-American dish that has become a staple on many restaurant menus. While the classic combination of shrimp, garlic, white wine, and butter is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take it to a whole new level. In this article, we will explore 15 mouthwatering sides that perfectly complement shrimp scampi, adding variety and depth to your meal.
Shrimp Scampi: A Quick Overview
Before we dive into the sides, let’s take a moment to recap what shrimp scampi is. Shrimp scampi is a savory dish consisting of shrimp cooked in a garlic-infused sauce, often with white wine and butter. The dish is typically served over pasta and garnished with lemon zest and parsley. Although the name “scampi” traditionally refers to a type of small lobster, shrimp has become the more common substitute due to its accessibility and similar taste.
Flavors that complement shrimp scampi
When choosing garnishes for shrimp scampi, it’s important to choose flavors that enhance and balance the dish without overpowering it. The delicate and light nature of shrimp scampi calls for garnishes that provide freshness and contrast.
Here are some flavors that work well with shrimp scampi:
- Fresh and crisp green salad
- Buttery Asparagus
- Creamy Polenta
- Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes)
- Buttered Asparagus
- Shrimp Scampi Bruschetta
- Creamy Polenta with Spinach
- Roasted Broccoli
- Gnocchi with Green Beans and Parsley
- Cauliflower Rice
- Quinoa and Carrot Salad
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
- Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms
- Grilled Zucchini
15 Delicious Sides to Serve with Shrimp Scampi
Now let’s take a closer look at each of these sides:
1. Fresh and Crisp Green Salad
A refreshing green salad provides a light and vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of shrimp scampi. Consider incorporating ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
2. Buttery Asparagus
Pan-seared asparagus in rich butter adds a touch of elegance to your shrimp scampi. The caramelized exterior of the asparagus complements the succulent shrimp, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
3. Creamy Polenta
Replace traditional pasta with creamy polenta for a comforting and satisfying side dish. The smooth and creamy texture of polenta pairs well with the flavors of shrimp scampi for a luxurious dining experience.
4. Patatas Bravas (Spicy Potatoes)
If you’re in the mood for a Spanish twist, serve shrimp scampi with patatas bravas. These crispy, seasoned potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce add a delicious kick to the meal and create a fusion of flavors.
5. Shrimp Scampi Bruschetta
Turn shrimp scampi into a delicious appetizer by serving them on toasted bread with diced tomatoes, fresh basil and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Shrimp Scampi Bruschetta is a crowd-pleasing option that combines the best of both worlds.
6. Creamy Polenta with Spinach
Take your polenta to the next level by adding earthy spinach and rich Parmesan cheese. This combination adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it the perfect accompaniment to shrimp scampi.
7. Pan-Roasted Broccoli
Pan-roasted broccoli brings a delightful crunch and caramelized flavor to the table. When paired with shrimp scampi, the florets soak up the flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
8. Gnocchi with Green Beans and Parsley
Combine pillowy gnocchi with crunchy green beans and fresh parsley for a satisfying side dish. The combination of textures and flavors adds dimension to your shrimp scampi, creating a well-rounded and delicious meal.
9. Cauliflower Rice
For a lighter, low-carb option, serve shrimp scampi with cauliflower rice. The tender cauliflower grains absorb the flavors of the dish, providing a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional rice.
10. Quinoa and Carrot Salad
Enhance your shrimp scampi with a colorful and nutritious quinoa and carrot salad. The nutty quinoa and crunchy carrots contrast nicely with the succulent shrimp, adding texture and vibrancy to the plate.
11. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Roasted cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the shrimp scampi. The vibrant colors and intense flavors of the tomatoes enhance the overall presentation and flavor of the dish.
12. Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes with a zesty lemon and herb seasoning complement the flavors of shrimp scampi. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the potatoes add a delightful texture to the dish, making it a satisfying and comforting pairing.
13. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Sauteed mushrooms in garlic butter add an earthy and savory element to your shrimp scampi. The umami flavors of the mushrooms enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a rich and satisfying combination.
14. Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini adds a smoky and charred flavor to the dish, creating a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp. The natural sweetness of the zucchini complements the savory notes of the shrimp scampi, resulting in a delicious and balanced dish.
BOTTOM LINE
When it comes to serving shrimp scampi, there is a wide variety of sides that can enhance your dining experience. From fresh salads to creamy polenta and flavorful vegetables, each side brings its own unique characteristics to the table. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing and enjoy the delicious flavors that complement Shrimp Scampi to perfection.
FAQS
Can I serve shrimp scampi with a salad?
Absolutely! A fresh and crisp green salad pairs well with shrimp scampi and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
Are there low-carb options to serve with shrimp scampi?
Yes, you can opt for cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta. Cauliflower rice is a lighter, low-carb alternative that absorbs the flavors of the dish while providing a nutritious base for your shrimp scampi.
Can I serve shrimp scampi with potatoes?
Absolutely! There are several potato options that pair well with shrimp scampi. You can try lemon herb roasted potatoes for a zesty and flavorful twist, or go for patatas bravas for a spicy kick.
What are some vegetarian sides that go well with shrimp scampi?
If you’re looking for vegetarian options, creamy polenta with spinach or gnocchi with green beans and parsley are excellent choices. These sides add depth and flavor to your shrimp scampi while keeping the meal vegetarian-friendly.
Can I serve shrimp scampi with roasted vegetables?
Absolutely! Roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and zucchini are excellent accompaniments to shrimp scampi. They add a nice texture and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.