Shrimp Scampi Supreme is a classic example of Italian immigrant influence on American cuisine. “Scampi” are actually lobster-like crustaceans, but much smaller – about the size of a jumbo prawn (shrimp). They have pale pink shells, also like the larger lobsters. When Italian cooks immigrated to America, true scampi were hard to come by. So, they started using jumbo prawns with exceptionally satisfying results. They continued to call the dish “scampi”, but added “shrimp” to the name. Hence, “Shrimp Scampi” came into existence, a truly original American dish. There are many versions of it, but this one is my favorite, thus the name: Shrimp Scampi Supreme!
(Photo Attributed to Author: Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom)
One of the more traditional methods of preparing scampi in Italy is to sauté them in white wine, olive oil, chopped onion and minced garlic. This American Shrimp Scampi Supreme recipe follows that much of the tradition, but adds a couple herbs: parsley and tarragon.
Italian-American Shrimp Scampi Supreme Recipe-
