Looking for the ultimate summer shrimp scampi with tomatoes and corn recipe? This seasonal twist on a classic Italian-American favorite combines succulent shrimp with the freshest summer produce for a meal that’s ready in minutes.
When summer’s bounty brings sweet corn and juicy tomatoes to your farmers’ market, it’s the perfect time to elevate traditional shrimp scampi. The sweetness of fresh corn kernels and the bright acidity of ripe tomatoes complement the garlicky, buttery sauce that coats each perfectly cooked shrimp. This light yet satisfying dish captures sunshine on a plate and transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something special.
You’ll love how quickly this colorful one-pan wonder comes together—perfect for busy summer evenings when you’d rather be enjoying the outdoors than spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or on its own for a low-carb option.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Shrimp Scampi
This refreshing summer spin on classic shrimp scampi delivers vibrant flavors that capture the season’s best offerings. The juicy cherry tomatoes burst with bright acidity while sweet corn kernels add natural sweetness that perfectly balances the rich garlic butter sauce.
You’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together—ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those warm evenings when you crave something satisfying yet don’t want to spend hours in a hot kitchen.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a true standout. Serve it over angel hair pasta for a traditional approach or pair it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that luxurious sauce. For a lighter option you can enjoy it straight from the skillet with a side salad.
Health-conscious diners will love that this dish packs important nutritional benefits. Shrimp provides lean protein while the fresh vegetables deliver essential vitamins and fiber. The entire meal feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down during summer activities.
Entertaining becomes effortless with this impressive yet simple recipe. The vibrant colors create a stunning presentation that will wow your guests without requiring complex techniques or obscure ingredients.
What Makes This Shrimp Scampi Perfect for Summer
This vibrant shrimp scampi showcases the best elements of summer cuisine through its thoughtful combination of seasonal ingredients and cooking approach. Fresh cherry tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness while corn kernels add natural sweetness that perfectly balances the rich garlic butter sauce.
Ready in approximately 30 minutes this dish epitomizes effortless summer cooking when you want to minimize time spent over a hot stove. The one-pan preparation means less cleanup and more time enjoying warm summer evenings with family or friends.
Even though its simplicity this recipe maintains all the classic scampi elements you love – garlic butter white wine and lemon juice – while elevating them with colorful summer produce. The traditional flavors receive a seasonal transformation that makes this dish especially appropriate for warm weather dining.
A touch of crushed red pepper flakes provides gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes. Fresh herbs like parsley basil or chives contribute bright aromatic notes that enhance the overall freshness of the dish.
This summer shrimp scampi offers remarkable versatility in your meal planning. Serve it as a gluten-free standalone entrée or pair it with pasta or rice for a more substantial meal. The recipe works equally well for casual weeknight dinners or more elegant summer gatherings on the patio.
The combination of lean protein from the shrimp with the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that satisfies without feeling heavy – exactly what your body craves during hot summer months.
Ingredients for Summer Shrimp Scampi
Gather these fresh ingredients to create this vibrant summer dish that combines succulent shrimp with seasonal produce. Everything on this list works together to create the perfect balance of flavors in your scampi.
Fresh Produce
- 1 pint (10 oz) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
- 5-10 cloves garlic minced or sliced
- 1 fresh lemon (for juice and zest)
- 3 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil parsley or chives) torn or chopped for garnish
Seafood
- 1 to 1¼ pounds large or extra-large shrimp peeled and deveined
- You can leave tails on for presentation or remove them for easier eating
Pantry Staples
- 2-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4-5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc work well)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
Preparing this vibrant summer shrimp scampi requires just a few basic kitchen tools that most home cooks already have on hand. Gather these items before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process:
- Large skillet or frying pan – Preferably non-stick or cast iron for even heat distribution and to prevent the delicate shrimp from sticking
- Tongs or spatula – Essential for gently turning the shrimp without breaking them and stirring your vegetables
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic, halving tomatoes, and preparing fresh herbs
- Measuring spoons and cups – To accurately portion your ingredients for balanced flavors
- Citrus juicer (optional) – Helps extract the maximum amount of juice from your lemon
- Serving dishes or plates – For presenting your finished dish beautifully
The beauty of this summer shrimp scampi recipe lies in its simplicity – you’ll need just one pan for cooking, minimizing cleanup time and making this perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Having all your equipment ready before you begin cooking will help you execute this quick-cooking dish efficiently, allowing you to enjoy its fresh flavors at their peak.
Prep Work
Proper preparation is the key to this summer shrimp scampi’s success. Taking a few minutes to prep your shrimp and vegetables correctly will ensure quick cooking and maximum flavor development.
Preparing the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp very dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures you’ll get a beautiful golden sear rather than steamed shrimp. Season them evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed to maintain proper spacing. Cook the shrimp for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light golden color. Remove them from the skillet immediately and set aside on a clean plate. Remember that the shrimp will continue cooking slightly even after removal and will be returned to the pan later, so it’s better to undercook them slightly at this stage.
Prepping the Vegetables
Turn your attention to the vegetables while the pan is still hot. Slice or halve your cherry or grape tomatoes depending on their size. For added visual appeal consider using a mixture of red yellow and orange varieties. Next cut fresh corn kernels from the cob using a sharp knife or simply measure out thawed frozen corn if that’s what you have on hand. Mince or thinly slice 4-5 garlic cloves. Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding them to the same skillet you used for the shrimp. Add the corn alongside the tomatoes and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes stirring occasionally until the tomatoes begin to blister and release their juices while the corn becomes tender. During the final minute of cooking add the garlic and about ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the pan. This timing prevents the garlic from burning while still allowing its aromatic flavors to infuse the vegetables.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a vibrant summer shrimp scampi that balances sweet corn and juicy tomatoes with garlicky butter sauce. This one-pan dish comes together quickly for an elegant weeknight dinner.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add minced or sliced garlic to the skillet along with crushed red pepper flakes after cooking the shrimp and vegetables. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, allowing the mixture to simmer briefly until slightly reduced. Add the unsalted butter in pats, stirring gently as it melts to create a silky sauce that will coat all ingredients. The butter enriches the sauce while the wine and lemon juice provide acidity that balances the dish.
Cooking the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp completely dry with paper towels before seasoning them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet and cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light golden crust. Remove the shrimp from the skillet immediately and set aside on a plate. Cooking the shrimp first ensures they maintain their tender texture and don’t become overcooked in the final dish.
Adding Tomatoes and Corn
Toss the cherry tomatoes into the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to blister and some start to burst. Add the corn kernels to the tomatoes and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the corn turns lightly golden and heats through. Stir occasionally but gently to maintain the vegetables’ integrity while they release their sweet flavors into the pan. The natural juices from the tomatoes will help create the foundation for your sauce.
Final Touches
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing everything together to coat all ingredients evenly in the garlic butter sauce. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or chives to add brightness and color. Serve your summer shrimp scampi immediately while hot, either on its own or over cooked pasta. For an extra touch of richness, offer grated parmesan cheese at the table. This final combination of flavors creates a balanced dish that showcases both the sweetness of summer produce and the savory garlic butter that defines classic scampi.
Serving Suggestions
Transform your summer shrimp scampi into a complete meal with these delicious serving options that complement its garlicky butter sauce and fresh ingredients:
- Serve over al dente penne or linguine pasta which absorbs the flavorful scampi sauce beautifully
- Offer crusty artisan bread on the side for a lighter gluten-free alternative that’s perfect for sauce-dipping
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil parsley or chives to add brightness and visual appeal
- Place lemon wedges alongside each serving to allow guests to enhance the citrus notes to their taste
- Pour a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the seafood and buttery flavors
For a complete summer dinner experience try pairing this dish with a simple green salad dressed with light vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad balances the richness of the scampi while adding freshness to your meal.
You can also serve this versatile dish as an impressive appetizer by using smaller shrimp and presenting it in individual ramekins with sliced baguette on the side. This presentation works wonderfully for summer gatherings where guests can help themselves.
For a low-carb option skip the pasta and simply double the vegetables creating a protein-rich seafood sauté that stands perfectly on its own. The sweet corn and juicy tomatoes provide enough substance to make this variation satisfying without carbohydrate additions.
Remember that this one-pan wonder is equally suitable for casual weeknight dinners and special occasions making it one of summer’s most adaptable seafood dishes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Your summer shrimp scampi with tomatoes and corn can be enjoyed beyond your initial meal with proper storage and reheating techniques. Knowing how to preserve leftovers ensures you maintain the dish’s vibrant flavors and delicate textures.
Refrigeration
Allow your shrimp scampi to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, consider storing any pasta or grains separately from the shrimp mixture to prevent sogginess, as the seafood and sauce contain important moisture.
Avoid Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to texture changes in the key ingredients. Cooked shrimp often becomes rubbery when frozen and reheated. Fresh tomatoes and corn also lose their appealing texture and flavor profile after freezing. Enjoy your leftovers within the recommended refrigeration timeframe instead.
Stovetop Reheating
Place your refrigerated shrimp scampi in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small splash of olive oil, white wine, or broth to rejuvenate the sauce and prevent sticking. Cover the skillet loosely to distribute heat evenly throughout the mixture. Stir occasionally until thoroughly warmed, which typically takes 3-5 minutes. Gentle heating preserves the tender texture of your shrimp.
Microwave Method
For quicker reheating, place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through. This method works well for smaller portions but requires attention to prevent overcooking.
Refreshing Flavors
Revitalize your reheated dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of newly chopped herbs like basil or parsley, or a small pat of butter stirred in just before serving. These additions restore brightness and richness that may diminish during storage. Fresh garnishes make your leftover shrimp scampi taste nearly as vibrant as when freshly prepared.
Recipe Variations
This summer shrimp scampi recipe offers tremendous versatility allowing you to customize it based on your flavor preferences and cooking methods. Try these delicious variations to keep the dish exciting all season long.
Spicy Summer Scampi
Kick up the heat in your summer scampi by adding extra crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. For a more complex spice profile incorporate a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the vegetables. Cajun seasoning makes another excellent addition—simply sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons over the shrimp before cooking for a New Orleans-inspired twist. The natural sweetness of corn and tomatoes balances the spice beautifully allowing even heat-sensitive diners to enjoy a moderately spicy version. Try finishing your spicy scampi with a dollop of cooling crème fraîche or a sprinkle of cilantro instead of traditional basil for complementary flavors that stand up to the added heat.
Grilled Version
Transform this dish into a smoky outdoor feast by taking it to the grill. Thread peeled shrimp onto skewers after marinating them briefly in olive oil lemon juice and garlic. Grill corn on the cob until lightly charred then cut the kernels off. Place halved cherry tomatoes in a grill basket or on foil with olive oil salt and pepper until they begin to soften and blister. Prepare the scampi sauce in a cast iron skillet on the grill or stovetop by melting butter with garlic white wine and lemon juice. Combine the grilled components with the sauce in a large serving bowl just before serving. This method adds wonderful smoky depth to each element while maintaining the fresh summer essence of the dish. For added convenience you can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and focus on quickly grilling the shrimp when guests arrive.
Nutritional Information
This summer shrimp scampi with tomatoes and corn offers a balanced nutritional profile that makes it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Each serving provides approximately 324-468 calories, depending on your portion size and exact ingredient quantities.
The protein content stands out at 27-29 grams per serving, primarily from the succulent shrimp. This makes the dish an excellent source of lean protein to support muscle maintenance and overall satiety.
Carbohydrates are moderate at around 20 grams per serving, derived mainly from the sweet corn kernels and juicy tomatoes. These vegetables also contribute essential dietary fiber to support digestive health.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 324-468 kcal |
| Protein | 27-29 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 12-31 g |
The fat content varies between 12-31 grams based on the amounts of butter and olive oil used in your preparation. You can adjust these ingredients to align with your dietary preferences without significantly impacting the flavor profile.
Beyond macronutrients, this summer scampi delivers impressive micronutrient value. The tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while corn adds vitamin A to support eye health. Together with the mineral content from the seafood, including calcium and iron, this dish offers substantial nutritional benefits.
For those monitoring sodium intake, remember that shrimp naturally contains sodium, so you can reduce added salt accordingly. The fresh herbs and lemon juice allow for vibrant flavoring without relying heavily on salt.
This nutritional composition makes summer shrimp scampi with tomatoes and corn an ideal protein-rich meal that celebrates seasonal ingredients while delivering essential nutrients in a delicious package.
The Perfect Wine Pairings
Elevate your summer shrimp scampi experience with the right wine selection that complements the buttery garlic flavors and fresh seasonal vegetables. A thoughtfully chosen wine can enhance the sweetness of the shrimp while balancing the acidity of tomatoes and the sweetness of corn.
White Wine Options
White wines generally offer the most harmonious pairings with this vibrant summer dish. Sauvignon Blanc stands out as an exceptional choice with its crisp profile and citrusy notes of lemon, lime, and grapefruit. The grassy and herbal undertones beautifully enhance the garlic butter sauce while refreshing your palate between bites of sweet shrimp and vegetables.
Pinot Blanc delivers a light-bodied experience with citrus and herbal flavors plus subtle oaky notes that complement the buttery garlic flavors in the scampi. This wine matches perfectly with the brightness of summer tomatoes and corn without overpowering them.
Try a Dry Riesling if you prefer a wine with crisp acidity and subtle sweetness. This balance works wonderfully against the rich butter sauce while harmonizing with the aromatic garlic and lemon components in your summer scampi.
Spanish Verdejo offers vibrant citrus and fruity notes with interesting bitter fennel and grassy hints. These characteristics cut through the dense garlic and butter flavors while brightening the sweet corn and juicy tomato elements.
Additional Excellent Pairings
Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris provides medium-bodied options with good acidity and flavors of ripe pear and apple. These qualities complement both the texture and flavor of the shrimp while honoring the freshness of your summer produce.
French Sancerre (a Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley) brings striking acidity and minerality that balances the rich butter and olive oil in your scampi. The wine echoes the fresh herbs often added to the dish for a complete flavor experience.
Sparkling and Rosé Options
For something effervescent, Prosecco offers a light bubbly character that refreshes your palate between bites of the garlic butter sauce and sweet summer vegetables.
A chilled Rosé provides moderate acidity and fruity flavors that stand up beautifully to the richness of the shrimp scampi sauce while complementing the natural sweetness of corn and tomatoes.
For Red Wine Enthusiasts
If you prefer red wine, try a Rioja served slightly chilled. This moderately sweet red with balanced tannins and acidity offers a fruity and oaked profile that can complement the shrimp and butter sauce when served at a cooler temperature.
| Wine Type | Key Characteristics | Why It Works With Summer Shrimp Scampi |
|---|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp, citrusy, grassy | Cuts through butter; enhances garlic; refreshes palate |
| Pinot Blanc | Light-bodied, citrus, subtle oak | Complements butter and garlic; matches vegetable brightness |
| Dry Riesling | Crisp acidity, subtle sweetness | Balances rich sauce; harmonizes with aromatics |
| Verdejo | Vibrant citrus, bitter fennel notes | Lightens rich elements; brightens vegetables |
| Prosecco | Light, bubbly | Refreshes palate between rich bites |
| Rosé | Moderate acidity, fruity | Stands up to richness; complements vegetable sweetness |
Remember that serving temperature matters almost as much as your wine selection. White and rosé wines should be properly chilled to maintain their refreshing qualities against the warm richness of your summer shrimp scampi.
Conclusion
This summer shrimp scampi transforms a classic dish into a seasonal celebration that’s perfect for warm evenings. You’ll love how the sweet corn and juicy tomatoes brighten the traditional garlic butter sauce while keeping prep time under 25 minutes.
Whether you serve it over pasta with crusty bread or enjoy it as a low-carb option straight from the skillet, this versatile dish adapts to your needs. The one-pan preparation means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal outdoors.
Try the suggested variations to keep the recipe exciting all season long and don’t forget to pair it with a chilled white wine for the ultimate summer dining experience. It’s proof that exceptional flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques—just fresh seasonal ingredients and a few minutes of your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this shrimp scampi a “summer” version?
This summer shrimp scampi incorporates seasonal ingredients like fresh cherry tomatoes and sweet corn, which enhance the traditional garlic butter sauce. These summer vegetables add natural sweetness, acidity, and vibrant color to the dish, creating a lighter version perfect for warm weather. The recipe maintains classic scampi elements while celebrating peak-season produce.
How long does it take to prepare this summer shrimp scampi?
The summer shrimp scampi can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The quick cooking time also means you won’t heat up your kitchen for long during hot summer evenings.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store pasta or grains separately to prevent sogginess. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil or broth to maintain moisture.
What’s the best way to serve summer shrimp scampi?
This versatile dish can be served multiple ways: over angel hair pasta for a traditional approach, alongside crusty artisan bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, or on its own with extra vegetables for a low-carb option. Add a simple green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal that works for both casual dinners and special occasions.
What wine pairs best with summer shrimp scampi?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, or Dry Riesling complement the dish beautifully with their bright acidity. Prosecco and chilled Rosé offer refreshing sparkling options. If you prefer red wine, try a slightly chilled Rioja. Proper serving temperature enhances the pairing—whites should be properly chilled and reds slightly cooled.
Is summer shrimp scampi healthy?
Yes, this dish offers a balanced nutritional profile with approximately 324-468 calories per serving. It features lean protein from shrimp, beneficial nutrients from fresh vegetables, and moderate carbohydrates primarily from corn and tomatoes. The dish provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while remaining lighter than many traditional pasta dishes.
Can I customize the spice level?
Absolutely! The recipe includes a moderate amount of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh jalapeños. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper entirely. The recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your personal spice preference.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need basic kitchen equipment: a large skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron), tongs or a spatula, a sharp knife and cutting board for prep work, measuring spoons and cups, and optionally, a citrus juicer for the lemon. This simple setup allows for efficient cooking and minimal cleanup.
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