Side Dishes To Serve With Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi, a classic Italian-American dish that never fails to impress, is made by sautéing succulent shrimp in a zesty mixture of garlic, butter, white wine, and herbs, typically served with pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. However, the right side dishes can elevate this culinary delight to new heights. Here are some ideas for side dishes that complement shrimp scampi perfectly, each selected for its unique ability to enhance the dining experience without overpowering the main event.

1. Roasted Asparagus

A simple yet elegant choice, asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice provides a delightful contrast in texture to the rich shrimp scampi. The slight bitterness of the asparagus cuts through the butteriness of the dish, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. To prepare, toss fresh asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes

Thinly sliced potatoes, tossed with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, then roasted until crispy, make a satisfying side dish. The earthiness of the potatoes complements the seafood beautifully, while the garlic and herbs tie in nicely with the flavors in the scampi. For a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, roast the potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

3. Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quickly cooking a handful of spinach with some minced garlic in olive oil can provide a nutrient-packed side that complements the shrimp nicely. The bitterness of the spinach is balanced by the richness of the garlic, creating a harmonious balance that pairs well with the scampi. To prepare, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then add a handful of fresh spinach and cook until wilted, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

4. Caprese Salad

A colorful caprese salad made with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, adds a pop of color and freshness to the table. The acidity and slight sweetness of the tomatoes and vinegar cut through the richness of the shrimp, while the creaminess of the mozzarella provides a luxurious touch. To prepare, alternate sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese on a plate, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

5. Grilled or Steamed Vegetables

Grilled or steamed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon, offer a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp scampi. The smokiness of grilled vegetables or the tenderness of steamed ones provides a nice textural contrast, while the lemon juice adds a bright and citrusy note. To prepare, brush sliced or whole vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then grill or steam until tender.

6. Lemon Garlic Rice

For a more filling side dish, lemon garlic rice is a great option. Cooked rice mixed with lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley, then seasoned with salt and pepper, provides a flavorful base that complements the seafood nicely. The brightness of the lemon and the pungency of the garlic enhance the flavors of the shrimp, while the parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note. To prepare, cook rice according to package instructions, then mix with lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper.

7. Italian-Style Green Salad

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a homemade Italian dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs like oregano and basil, offers a refreshing accompaniment. The cooling effect of the salad and the tanginess of the dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm and rich shrimp scampi. To prepare, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices in a bowl, then drizzle with homemade Italian dressing and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

8. Garlic Bread

For a more indulgent option, garlic bread is a classic choice that pairs well with shrimp scampi. Simply butter slices of bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake until crispy. The richness of the butter and the pungency of the garlic complement the flavors of the shrimp, while the crunch of the bread provides a satisfying textural contrast. To prepare, butter slices of bread, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Each of these side dishes brings its own unique charm to the table, enhancing the dining experience without overpowering the star of the show: the shrimp scampi. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s a side dish on this list that’s sure to please.