Introduction

Shrimp scampi is a savory, garlicky, and buttery seafood dish that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it’s a meal that begs for the perfect side dish to complete it.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What to serve with shrimp scampi?” you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll cover:

Classic sides like pasta and garlic bread
Healthy options like fresh salads and roasted veggies
Hearty grains and creative pairings
An easy homemade shrimp scampi recipe

Let’s dive into the best side dishes that will take your shrimp scampi to the next level!

The Best Classic Sides for Shrimp Scampi

When it comes to what to serve with shrimp scampi, classic side dishes never fail. From buttery bread to perfectly cooked pasta, these traditional pairings bring out the rich, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi.

Garlic Bread & Rustic Bread – A Must-Have Side for Shrimp Scampi

What’s better than warm, crispy bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce? Whether it’s garlic bread, a crusty baguette, or rustic Italian bread, this is a must-have side for shrimp scampi.

Pro Tip: Toast your bread with a bit of olive oil and garlic powder for extra flavor!

Lemon Butter Pasta – A Classic Pairing with Shrimp Scampi

Pasta is one of the most popular pairings with shrimp scampi. While classic angel hair or spaghetti works well, a lemon butter pasta adds a zesty kick that complements the shrimp perfectly.

✔️ Best pasta options:

• Spaghetti
• Linguine
• Fettuccine

✔️ Quick Pasta Recipe:

• Cook your favorite pasta until al dente.
• Toss with butter, fresh lemon juice, and garlic.
• Sprinkle with parsley and grated Parmesan.

Creamy Parmesan Polenta – A Comforting Side for Shrimp Scampi

If you want something rich and comforting, polenta is a great alternative to pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and soaks up sauces beautifully.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Boil water or broth, then whisk in cornmeal.
• Cook until smooth, then mix in Parmesan cheese and butter.
• Serve warm with shrimp scampi on top!

Risotto – A Luxurious Addition to Your Shrimp Scampi Meal

For an elegant dinner option, risotto is a fantastic choice. Its creamy texture and mild flavor allow shrimp scampi to shine.

✔️ Best Risotto Flavors for Shrimp Scampi:

• Garlic Parmesan
• Lemon Herb
• Classic Italian Style

Pro Tip: Stir risotto constantly while cooking to get that perfect creamy consistency!

Fresh & Healthy Sides for Shrimp Scampi

While garlic bread and pasta are traditional favorites, sometimes you want something light and refreshing to balance the rich, buttery flavors of shrimp scampi. If you’re wondering what to serve with shrimp scampi that won’t feel too heavy, these healthy side dishes are perfect.

Learn more about shrimp scampi on Wikipedia.

1. Caprese Salad

A simple yet elegant option, Caprese salad brings together juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all drizzled with a light balsamic glaze. The tanginess of the dressing enhances the garlic butter sauce in shrimp scampi without overpowering it.

✔️ Quick Caprese Salad Recipe:

• Slice fresh tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds.
• Arrange them on a plate, layering with fresh basil leaves.
• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

💡 Want a twist? Add avocado for extra creaminess!

2. Roasted Beet Salad

Beets have a natural sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with savory seafood dishes. A roasted beet salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and arugula adds crunch, tang, and freshness to your plate.

✔️ Why It Works:

• The earthy beets complement the garlic flavors in shrimp scampi.
• Goat cheese adds creaminess, while walnuts provide texture.

3. Greek Salad (Ina Garten’s Recipe)

Looking for a Mediterranean-inspired side? A Greek salad is a great choice. Loaded with cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, and feta, this bright and crunchy dish cuts through the richness of shrimp scampi.

✔️ Quick Greek Salad Dressing:

• Mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
• Toss with chopped veggies and feta cheese.

💡 For extra freshness, serve chilled!

4. Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms

If you’re looking for low-carb options, stuffed mushrooms are a winner! These bite-sized delights bring together the flavors of garlic, spinach, artichokes, and cheese, making them a flavorful yet nutrient-rich side dish.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Sauté garlic, spinach, and chopped artichokes in olive oil.
• Mix with Parmesan and cream cheese.
• Fill mushroom caps with the mixture and bake until golden brown.

💡 This dish is great for appetizers, too!

Hearty Vegetables & Roasted Sides

If you’re still wondering what to serve with shrimp scampi that adds more substance to your meal, roasted vegetables and hearty sides are fantastic options. These dishes bring warmth, crunch, and balance to your plate.

1. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots & Zucchini

Shrimp scampi has a buttery garlic sauce, so pairing it with roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic and herbs is a no-brainer! This trio of potatoes, carrots, and zucchini creates a satisfying, nutrient-packed side dish.

Enhance your side dish with this savory vegetable sauce that brings out roasted flavors beautifully.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Cut potatoes, carrots, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
• Toss with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
• Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.

💡 Want extra crispiness? Broil for the last 5 minutes!

2. Lemon and Feta Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus brings a smoky, charred flavor that enhances shrimp scampi’s light citrus notes. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese and lemon zest makes it even better.

✔️ Why It Works:

• Asparagus is crisp and fresh, offering a contrast to the soft shrimp.
• Feta adds a salty bite that pairs well with seafood.

3. Butter-Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes aren’t just for fall! Their slight sweetness and creamy texture make them a delicious contrast to shrimp scampi’s garlicky sauce.

✔️ Quick Sweet Potato Recipe:

• Slice sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes.
• Toss with butter, salt, and a hint of cinnamon.
• Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until tender.

💡 Want a little spice? Add a dash of cayenne pepper!

4. Ultimate Potato Soup

If you love warm, creamy comfort foods, potato soup is a surprising but amazing pairing with shrimp scampi. The thick, velvety texture of the soup complements the light, garlicky shrimp beautifully.

✔️ What Makes It Great:

• Creamy texture balances the richness of shrimp scampi.
• Can be made light or indulgent, depending on your preference.

💡 Looking for a warm and creamy side dish? This potato soup recipe is a delicious choice!

Alternative Grain Pairings for Shrimp Scampi

While pasta is the most common grain to serve with shrimp scampi, there are plenty of lighter, healthier, and unique grain options that complement this dish. If you’re wondering what to serve with shrimp scampi beyond pasta, these grains provide great texture and flavor balance.

1. Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice pilaf is a nutty, slightly chewy grain dish that pairs wonderfully with the buttery richness of shrimp scampi. Not only does it add texture, but the cranberries and pecans also bring a mix of sweet and crunchy elements, making every bite even more interesting and satisfying.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Cook wild rice and brown rice together for extra texture.
• Stir in chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley.
• Drizzle with a hint of olive oil and lemon zest for freshness.

💡 For an extra boost of flavor, try cooking the rice in vegetable broth!

2. Classic Quinoa with Lemon & Garlic

Quinoa is a high-protein, gluten-free option that works well with shrimp scampi’s flavors. Since it’s light and fluffy, it won’t overpower the dish but still provides a satisfying base.

✔️ Quick Quinoa Recipe:

• Rinse quinoa and cook it in chicken or vegetable broth.
• Mix in garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

💡 Want a burst of Mediterranean flavor? Add feta cheese and cherry tomatoes!

3. Whole Wheat Couscous

Couscous is a fast-cooking grain that’s light, fluffy, and absorbs sauces well. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want a hearty pairing for shrimp scampi.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Cook couscous in vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
• Stir in chopped herbs, garlic, and lemon zest.
• Serve warm with shrimp scampi on top.

💡 For a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds!

Light & Refreshing Soup Pairings for Shrimp Scampi

If you’re looking for what to serve with shrimp scampi that adds both warmth and comfort, then a light soup is a fantastic option. In addition, soups with bright flavors not only balance the rich garlic butter sauce, but they also make each bite feel even more fresh and satisfying.

1. Authentic Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a cold, tomato-based soup that brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery shrimp scampi. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light but still flavorful.

✔️ Why It Works:

• The acidity of tomatoes balances the richness of shrimp scampi.
• Served chilled, it adds a refreshing element to the meal.

✔️ Quick Gazpacho Recipe:

• Blend ripe tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and garlic.
• Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes, then serve cold.

💡 Want extra flavor? Garnish with chopped basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze!

2. Creamy Cauliflower Soup

Cauliflower soup is smooth, creamy, and mild, making it an excellent pairing for garlicky shrimp scampi. It’s a lighter alternative to potato soup but still offers a rich, velvety texture.

✔️ How to Make It:

• Sauté onions and garlic in a little olive oil.
• Add chopped cauliflower and vegetable broth, then simmer.
• Blend until smooth, then stir in a splash of milk or cream.

Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Now that we’ve covered what to serve with shrimp scampi, it’s time to make this delicious dish at home! This quick and easy shrimp scampi recipe is packed with buttery garlic flavor, fresh lemon, and tender shrimp. Plus, it pairs perfectly with any of the sides we’ve discussed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make a flavorful shrimp scampi:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking

💡 Tip: If serving with pasta or grains, cook them while preparing the shrimp for the best timing!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Prep the Shrimp

• If using fresh shrimp, rinse them under cold water and pat dry.
• Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper for extra flavor.

2: Sauté the Garlic

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3: Cook the Shrimp

• Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
• Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

4: Make the Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring well.
• Let it simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
• Stir in the remaining 2 tbsp of butter until melted.

5: Combine & Serve

• Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with your favorite pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables!

💡 For extra zest, add a little grated lemon peel before serving!

Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)

If you’re watching your nutrition, here’s the breakdown of shrimp scampi without pasta or sides.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	165 kcal
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fat	10g
Sodium	310mg
Fiber	0.5g
Calcium	80mg

How to Make It Healthier

Shrimp scampi is already a protein-rich dish, but you can make it even lighter with these swaps:

Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fat.
Serve with whole grains like quinoa instead of white pasta.
Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for fiber and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi

Still wondering what to serve with shrimp scampi? Here are some common questions people ask when planning the perfect meal.

1. What sides go with shrimp scampi?

Shrimp scampi pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on whether you prefer classic, healthy, or hearty options.

Classic Sides: Garlic bread, lemon butter pasta, creamy polenta.
Healthy Sides: Caprese salad, roasted asparagus, quinoa.
Hearty Sides: Wild rice pilaf, potato soup, risotto.

💡 For the best experience, pair shrimp scampi with a mix of fresh, starchy, and crunchy sides!

2. What does Ina Garten serve with her shrimp scampi?

Ina Garten, the famous chef, typically serves Greek salad, lemony pasta, and crusty bread with her shrimp scampi. Not only does she choose light and flavorful pairings, but she also ensures they enhance the dish without overpowering it.

✔️ Try This: Toss linguine with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for an Ina-inspired side dish!

3. What is shrimp scampi traditionally served with?

Traditionally, shrimp scampi is served over pasta or with toasted bread to soak up the buttery garlic sauce. However, alternatives like couscous, risotto, or vegetable sides work just as well.

💡 Looking for a low-carb option? Try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice!

4. What is a good side dish with shrimp?

Besides shrimp scampi, shrimp pairs well with roasted vegetables, citrus-based salads, or creamy soups. If you want a quick and easy side, consider serving it with steamed green beans, mashed sweet potatoes, or a light quinoa salad.