Shrimp scampi is a classic dish known for its rich, buttery sauce and fresh, bright flavors. By using a slow cooker, this traditional favorite is transformed into a hassle-free meal that allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. Combined with the fresh crunch of spring vegetables, this Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi with Spring Veggies is a perfect dish for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to an elegant gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of sugar snap peas, trimmed
- 1/2 cup of sliced carrots
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Prep Veggies: Start by halving the cherry tomatoes, trimming the sugar snap peas, and slicing the carrots. Mince the garlic cloves. Set these ingredients aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, trimmed sugar snap peas, sliced carrots, and minced garlic. These vegetables will add a fresh, crisp element to the rich scampi sauce.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, dry white wine, and fresh lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon juice and wine will balance the richness of the butter and shrimp.
- Add Butter: Scatter the pieces of unsalted butter over the top. The butter will melt slowly, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that will coat the shrimp and vegetables.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). The red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat to the dish, which complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the acidity of the lemon juice.
Step 3: Cook
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crunch. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Shrimp
- Add Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. The shrimp will cook quickly in the hot liquid.
- Cook Further: Cover and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Add Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving. The parsley will add a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
- Serve: Serve the Shrimp Scampi with Spring Veggies hot, over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The rich, buttery sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of sides.
Cooking Notes
- Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before adding to the slow cooker. Fresh shrimp will have the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can also be used if thawed properly.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other spring vegetables like asparagus or baby spinach for added flavor and nutrition. These vegetables will complement the flavors of the shrimp and the sauce.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth. This will still provide a rich, flavorful base for the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the shrimp just before the final cooking stage to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: It is not recommended to freeze this dish as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated from frozen. Freshly made or refrigerated leftovers are best.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This recipe is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly. For an even lower carb count, serve the shrimp scampi with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice. These alternatives provide a similar texture and help soak up the delicious sauce without adding extra carbs.
Slow Cooker Shrimp Scampi with Spring Veggies is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh vegetables, tender shrimp, and flavorful lemon-butter sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly convenient, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Try this recipe today and enjoy a light, satisfying homemade meal!
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