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- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - Zest of 1 lemon - Juice of 2 lemons - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved - Salt and black pepper to taste - 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The shrimp gives it a nice texture. The butter adds richness, while garlic offers a strong flavor. Red pepper flakes add heat, and lemon brings brightness. Chicken broth adds depth, while tomatoes provide sweetness. Salt and pepper balance everything out, and fresh parsley adds color. Get creative with this dish! Here are some optional ingredients to enhance it: - Fresh basil for a different herb flavor - White wine for a touch of acidity - Capers for a briny bite - Spinach or arugula for extra greens - Lemon slices for added garnish Feel free to mix and match based on your taste. Sometimes you might not have everything on hand. Here are some substitutes: - Shrimp: Use scallops or chicken if you prefer. - Butter: Olive oil works well for a lighter option. - Garlic: Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic in a pinch. - Chicken broth: Vegetable broth is a good swap for a vegetarian version. - Pasta: Any long pasta like fettuccine or penne will work. These swaps can help you make the dish even if you're missing some ingredients. Enjoy the process and make it your own! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. This helps flavor the pasta. Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti. Cook until al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Next, prepare the shrimp. You need 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the shrimp cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but don’t let the garlic burn. Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. After the shrimp is ready, add the zest of 1 lemon and the juice of 2 lemons. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup of halved grape tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it reduce for about 3-4 minutes. This step builds great flavor. Next, it’s time to mix everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss well to coat the noodles in all that delicious sauce. If the sauce seems thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Stir until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This adds richness to the dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra lemon zest if you like. Serve immediately, and don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese on the side! Enjoy your meal! When picking shrimp, look for large, firm ones. Their shells should be smooth and shiny. Fresh shrimp have a slight ocean scent, not a strong fishy smell. If you buy frozen shrimp, ensure they are not stuck together. This means they thawed and refroze, which is not ideal. Always check the label to know if they are wild-caught or farmed. Wild-caught shrimp often taste better and have better texture. Cooking pasta al dente means it has a slight bite. Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a good amount of salt; it should taste like the sea. Stir the pasta often to prevent sticking. Follow the package time, but check a minute early. Taste a piece; if it’s firm but cooked, it’s ready. Before draining, save some pasta water. This water can help your sauce stick better. One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly, about 2-3 minutes per side. If they curl tightly, they are overdone. Another mistake is burning the garlic. Always sauté it over medium heat and watch it closely. Adding too much liquid too fast can also ruin your sauce. Start with less broth and adjust it as needed. Finally, don’t forget the pasta water! It can help make your dish creamy and rich. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and lemons will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean, not fishy. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Alternatively, for more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Pasta Cooking Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It helps to loosen the sauce and add flavor, creating a perfect consistency. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also freshness. Consider adding a bit of lemon zest on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor. {{image_2}} You can use many types of pasta for this dish. While linguine is a classic choice, spaghetti works well too. For a twist, try fettuccine or penne. Each type gives a unique texture and taste. If you prefer a lighter meal, you can use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These options are tasty and add veggies to your plate. Adding more ingredients can boost the flavor of your scampi. You might want to toss in some fresh spinach or arugula. Their greens add color and nutrients. Sautéed bell peppers or snap peas bring a nice crunch. You can also sprinkle in fresh herbs, like basil or dill, for a fresh taste. If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Each choice can change the dish and make it your own. If you're gluten-free, don't worry! There are great pasta alternatives. Look for gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. These options cook well and taste great with the sauce. You can also skip the pasta altogether. Serve the shrimp over rice or cauliflower rice instead. This keeps the flavors while meeting your dietary needs. To store leftover shrimp scampi, place it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool down first. Then, cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to keep the shrimp and sauce together for the best flavor. When reheating shrimp scampi, the goal is to keep it moist. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan. This helps to prevent the dish from drying out. Stir gently to warm it through. You can also microwave it in short bursts. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from getting tough. Heat until warm, but don’t overdo it! You can freeze shrimp scampi, but the texture may change. If you decide to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container. Use it within one month for the best taste. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth as needed. This will help revive the flavors. You can serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi with a few tasty sides. Here are some great ideas: - Garlic Bread: It soaks up the sauce well and adds a nice crunch. - Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus work well. They add color and nutrients. - Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly. - Rice or Quinoa: These options are great for soaking up the delicious lemon sauce. These sides make your meal more balanced and flavorful. You can prepare some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then store them in the fridge. - Pasta: Cook it al dente, cool it, and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. - Shrimp: Cook shrimp and let it cool. Store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat everything together in a skillet. This keeps the flavors fresh. Cooked shrimp can last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. - If you see any changes in color or smell, it’s best to throw it out. - When in doubt, always check for freshness before eating. Storing it properly helps maintain its taste and safety. This blog post covered everything you need for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi. We explored ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. You learned how to avoid common mistakes and make it your own with variations. Remember to store leftovers properly for the best taste later. Enjoy making this dish your own and impressing your guests. Cooking can be fun and easy with the right guidance. Get creative and let your kitchen skills shine!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi Fresh and Flavorful Dish

If you crave bold, fresh flavors, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi is for you! This dish combines juicy shrimp and al dente pasta with a…

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Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps Packed with Flavor

Looking for a meal that’s both delicious and easy? Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps are here to save the day! These wraps combine fresh ingredients and…

- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas - 1 cup cherry tomatoes - 1 cucumber - 1/4 red onion - 1/2 cup Kalamata olives - 1/4 cup fresh parsley - 1/4 cup tahini - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper - 4 large whole wheat wraps - Feta cheese for garnish - Additional toppings (e.g., avocado, spinach, etc.) When I prepare Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps, I love using fresh, vibrant ingredients. The base of this dish is chickpeas. They are packed with protein and fiber. A can of chickpeas makes this dish easy. Just drain and rinse them. Next, I add cherry tomatoes. Halved, they bring a sweet and juicy touch. Then, I chop a cucumber. Its crunch balances the soft chickpeas. A quarter of a red onion adds a nice kick. I slice Kalamata olives for a salty, briny flavor. Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color. For the creamy dressing, I use tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. This mix ties all the flavors together. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste. Finally, I wrap it all in large whole wheat wraps. If you're feeling fancy, sprinkle feta cheese on top. You can also add avocado or spinach for extra nutrition. These ingredients make your wraps fun and tasty! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by draining and rinsing one can of chickpeas. This step helps remove excess salt and enhances flavor. 2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, one cup of halved cherry tomatoes, one diced cucumber, one-fourth of a finely chopped red onion, and half a cup of sliced Kalamata olives. 3. Add one-fourth cup of chopped fresh parsley to the bowl. This adds a nice touch of green and flavor. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together one-fourth cup of tahini, two tablespoons of lemon juice, one tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. 5. Pour the tahini dressing over the chickpea mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat every piece well. 1. Lay out four large whole wheat wraps or pita bread on a clean surface. This makes filling them easier. 2. Spoon an equal portion of the chickpea mixture into the center of each wrap. Leave some space around the edges for folding. 3. If you like, sprinkle some feta cheese on top for extra flavor. 4. Fold the sides of the wrap toward the center. Then, roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. 5. Repeat this process with the remaining wraps until all are filled and rolled. - Serve the wraps right away for the best taste and texture. - If you're on the go, wrap each one in foil. This keeps them fresh and makes them easy to carry. You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. If you want a vegan wrap, skip the feta cheese. The chickpeas provide plenty of protein and fiber. If you're vegetarian, add feta for a creamier taste. For allergies, swap chickpeas for black beans or lentils. Use any veggies you like, such as bell peppers or spinach. This makes the wrap colorful and tasty. To keep your wraps fresh, store them in an airtight container. Wrap each one in foil or plastic wrap for easy grabbing. They last about three days in the fridge. If you want to freeze them, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a microwave or a skillet for best results. Want to spice things up? Try adding cumin or paprika to the chickpea mix. Fresh herbs like dill or mint can give a nice twist, too. For some crunch, add sliced radishes or toasted nuts. If you want creaminess, drizzle more tahini on top. You can also mix in some avocado for a rich taste. These tips will help you make your wraps even more delicious! Pro Tips Rinse Your Chickpeas: Rinsing the chickpeas not only removes excess sodium but also helps improve the texture of the wraps. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Make It Ahead: Prepare the chickpea mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just wrap it fresh before serving to maintain the wrap's integrity. Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings, like a yogurt-based one or a spicy harissa sauce, to give your wraps a new twist! {{image_2}} You can change the protein in your wraps to keep them exciting. Adding grilled chicken or turkey can give you extra flavor and texture. Simply grill the meat, slice it thin, and add it to your chickpea mix. You can also try using different beans like black beans or kidney beans. They will change the taste and add variety. Let’s explore how to enhance the flavors. You can create Mediterranean-inspired wraps by adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. These ingredients bring depth and richness. For a global twist, consider adding spicy elements like jalapeños or curry seasonings. This can make your wraps a fun and zesty meal. If you need a gluten-free choice, look for alternatives to whole wheat wraps. You can use rice paper wraps or corn tortillas. They will work well with the fillings. If you want a low-carb option, lettuce wraps are a great idea. They are light and fresh, perfect for those watching carbs. How long do Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps last in the fridge? You can store these wraps in the fridge for up to three days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Best storage containers to use Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. These prevent air from entering and keep the wraps tasty. Can you freeze these wraps? Yes, you can freeze Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps. Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thawing and reheating tips To thaw, move the wraps to the fridge overnight. Reheat them in a microwave or on a skillet until warm. Enjoy them hot! Prepping ingredients in advance You can chop the veggies and mix the dressing a day ahead. This saves time when you're ready to enjoy the wraps. Assembling wraps for easy weekly meals Assemble the wraps when you are ready to eat. This keeps the wraps crisp and fresh. Store the filling and wraps separately for the best taste. Making these wraps is quick and easy. You need just 15 minutes to prep and cook. Here’s the breakdown: - Prep time: 15 minutes - Cooking time: 0 minutes (no cooking needed) - Total time: 15 minutes Yes, you can make these wraps ahead of time! Here are some best practices: - Prep the filling: You can mix the chickpea filling a day before. Store it in the fridge. - Wrap it up: Assemble the wraps up to a few hours before serving. Keep them covered to avoid drying out. - For longer storage: Wrap each one in foil or plastic wrap. This makes them easy to grab later. If you don’t have chickpeas, here are some great substitutes: - Black beans: They add a nice color and flavor. - Cannellini beans: They are creamy and work well in wraps. - Grilled chicken or turkey: For a meat option, these add protein. - Tofu: A great plant-based protein choice. Yes, these wraps are healthy! Here are some benefits: - Fiber-rich: Chickpeas and veggies provide fiber, which helps digestion. - Vitamins and minerals: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley are full of nutrients. - Healthy fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats. - Low in calories: Each wrap has around 300-400 calories, depending on toppings. Enjoy these tasty and healthy wraps! Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps are easy to make and delicious. You learned the key ingredients, preparation steps, and how to customize your wraps. I shared tips on storage and variations to keep things fresh and exciting. Experiment with flavors and enjoy the benefits of healthy eating. These wraps fit any meal, whether at home or on the go. Enjoy creating your perfect wrap and savor the taste of the Mediterranean.