7 Must-Try Scampi Recipes from Fisherman's Wharf

Ah, the alluring scent of fresh seafood grilling in the open air! Just mention Fisherman's Wharf and one is immediately transported to the iconic San Francisco waterfront, where seafood reigns supreme. Amongst the myriad of culinary delights, one dish stands out with its delicate flavor and luxurious simplicity: scampi. In this post, we'll explore seven must-try scampi recipes that capture the essence of Fisherman's Wharf's maritime heritage and seafood mastery.

Why Scampi?

Scampi might conjure images of succulent prawns or langoustines, but in the context of Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s the star of countless dishes due to its:

• Versatility: Whether you enjoy it in pasta, as a standalone appetizer, or as part of a more elaborate dish.
• Distinct flavor: The mild, sweet taste of scampi pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
• Simplicity: Even the most basic preparation can yield a flavor-packed dish.

1. Classic Scampi Butter Sauce

Let’s start with the timeless recipe that’s a staple at Fisherman’s Wharf:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Lemon juice, salt, and black pepper
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Steps:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in the shrimp, cooking until pink.
4. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

⚓ Note: This dish is ideally served hot, straight from the skillet for the best experience.

2. Scampi Fettuccine Alfredo

A little twist on the classic, this version of scampi is incorporated into a rich Alfredo sauce:

• Scampi butter sauce base
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Fettuccine pasta

Steps:

1. Prepare the scampi butter sauce as above.
2. Add heavy cream to the skillet, stirring constantly to incorporate with the butter.
3. Once the sauce thickens, reduce heat, and stir in grated Parmesan until melted.
4. Toss in cooked fettuccine to coat.

⚓ Note: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling.

3. Mediterranean Scampi Grill

For those who adore grilled seafood with Mediterranean flair:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon zest and juice
• Fresh oregano and thyme
• Red pepper flakes
• Garlic

Steps:

1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, juice, herbs, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic.
2. Marinate shrimp for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill over medium-high heat until opaque.

4. Scampi with Saffron Risotto

The golden hue of saffron makes this dish as eye-catching as it is flavorful:

• Risotto rice (Arborio)
• White wine
• Saffron threads
• Chicken or vegetable stock
• Grated Parmesan

Steps:

1. Sauté the rice in olive oil or butter until translucent.
2. Add white wine and let it absorb.
3. Infuse saffron in warm stock, then ladle into the rice, stirring until creamy.
4. Finish with Parmesan cheese and stir in scampi before serving.

⚓ Note: Ensure saffron is steeped for a vibrant color and flavor infusion.

5. Scampi Avocado Bruschetta

Here’s an appetizer that’s sure to turn heads with its colorful presentation:

• French bread, sliced and toasted
• Scampi, cooked with butter and garlic
• Avocado, diced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil, chopped

Steps:

1. Prepare the scampi using the classic butter sauce.
2. Mix avocado, tomatoes, and basil with a touch of olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Spoon the avocado mixture onto toasted bread, then top with scampi.

6. Spicy Scampi Fra Diavolo

For those who like a little kick:

• Marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Red pepper flakes
• White wine
• Fresh parsley and basil

Steps:

1. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil.
2. Add marinara or tomatoes and wine, simmering until thickened.
3. Stir in scampi and cook until just done.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs.

7. Scampi Cocktail

Not all scampi need to be hot off the grill or stove. Here's a chilled delight:

• Shrimp, poached
• Cocktail sauce (ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice)
• Lettuce for presentation

Steps:

1. Poach the shrimp until just cooked.
2. Chill the shrimp thoroughly.
3. Serve with cocktail sauce over a bed of lettuce.

⚓ Note: The key to this dish is to ensure the shrimp are fresh and poached perfectly for maximum flavor.

The beauty of scampi lies not just in its taste but in its adaptability. Each dish at Fisherman's Wharf tells a story of the sea, from the local fisherman to the culinary artists who bring these flavors to life. We've given you seven tempting recipes that capture the spirit of this seafood haven. These dishes are not only a celebration of local cuisine but also a testament to the universal appeal of scampi. Whether you're revisiting a classic or trying something new, let these recipes inspire your next seafood feast.

Can I substitute shrimp for langoustines in these recipes?

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Absolutely! While langoustines are the traditional scampi, shrimp or prawns can be used interchangeably in most of these recipes. The key is to choose fresh, high-quality seafood for the best results.

What’s the best way to keep scampi fresh before cooking?

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The best way to keep scampi fresh is to store it on ice in the refrigerator. If you’re planning on using them the next day, you can also keep them in the coolest part of your fridge, wrapped in damp paper towels.

How do I get the butter sauce to emulsify properly?

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Emulsification in a butter sauce can be tricky. Here are some tips:

• Use cold butter, adding it piece by piece to the skillet after removing from the heat.
• Whisk constantly as you add butter to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
• If the sauce breaks, you can attempt to salvage it by adding a bit of cream or stock and whisking vigorously.