Shrimp Scampi Shrimp Platter with Green Mayonnaise

An easy shrimp scampi recipe, without the pasta.  The Green Mayonnaise  is an herby fresh, wonderful accompaniment.   

Shrimp Scampi Shrimp
Serves 8
2 1/2 to 3 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
3-4 tablespoons butter
3-4 tablespoons olive oil
7 garlic cloves minced
Pinch of sugar
2/3 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice from 1/2 lemon 
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & Pepper to taste

Heat the skillet over medium high heat. Melt the olive oil and butter. Add the garlic and cook for about one minute. Do not brown. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper and red pepper. Sprinkle with sugar.  Toss shrimp in garlic butter until they just begin to turn pink, 3-4 minutes. Add the parsley and wine and toss until fully pink and firm, about 1 minute. 

Squeeze on lemon juice and serve on platter of finely shredded lettuce.  Serve with Green Mayo.  

Green Mayonnaise
Makes about 2 1/4 cups
2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup raw spinach leaves, finely chopped
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped 
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Dash of hot pepper sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and blend well. Allow flavors to blend for about 2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers

helpful hints

» Use a large non-stick skillet. Do not crowd the shrimp, cook in one layer. You may need to cook in two batches depending on your skillet size. 

» Adding the sugar promotes a light browning or caramelization of the shrimp, which also adds a marvelous flavor 

» Vary the herbs in the Green Mayo if necessary.  This tasty mayo can also be used on sandwiches or mixed into chicken salad.  

» Shrimp can be served hot, chilled or at room temperature.  

make ahead

Three days ahead, prepare green mayonnaise. Keep tightly covered 

Two days ahead, peel and clean shrimp. Store in coldest part of fridge, wrapped in plastic wrap, in tightly covered plastic or glass container

Just before serving, cook shrimp or if serving chilled make the morning of the party