Demystifying Shrimp Scampi: Everything You Need To Know About Serving Sizes

Shrimp scampi is a seafood lover’s dream – juicy shrimp baked in garlic, butter and white wine. This Italian-American favorite has become a staple appetizer or main course across restaurants nationwide. But what exactly constitutes one serving of this decadent dish? Let’s break it down.

A Brief History of Scampi

To understand shrimp scampi, we first have to look at scampi itself. Scampi refers to a type of lobster-like crustacean called langoustine that is common in European waters. Italians have long enjoyed sautéing scampi in garlic, butter and wine.

When Italian immigrants came to America, langoustines weren’t readily available. So they adapted the dish using locally sourced shrimp. The name “shrimp scampi” stuck, and a classic was born!

Serving Size Basics

A standard serving of shrimp scampi is around 4-6 ounces or 1⁄2 cup This usually equates to 5-8 medium shrimp depending on their size,

Here’s a breakdown of serving sizes from a nutritional perspective

• 1 gram of protein per shrimp
• 36 calories per shrimp
• 3 grams of fat per serving from butter and olive oil
• Trace amounts of carbs

So a single serving provides a solid hit of protein with minimal carbs and around 200 calories

Controlling Portions

It’s easy to get carried away with shrimp scampi since it’s so rich and delicious. Resist the urge to overload your plate! Stick to a single serving and fill up on veggie sides.

Here are some tips to keep portions in check:

• Use small plates or bowls for individual servings
• Measure out butter and oil instead of estimating
• Share a large platter family-style
• Skip the bread basket or limit yourself to one slice

Moderation is key to keeping this indulgent dish from going to your waistline.

Ordering at Restaurants

Many restaurants list shrimp scampi as an appetizer, which is perfect for controlling portions. Expect 3-5 medium shrimp per order.

If it’s a main course, 6-8 shrimp is standard. Check the menu description for details. And don’t be afraid to ask your server how many shrimp come in the dish.

Get a side salad instead of carbs to balance out the richness. Or take half the pasta home for lunch tomorrow.

Nutrition Profile

Here is the nutritional profile for a single 4-6 ounce serving of shrimp scampi:

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 18g

It provides a solid dose of lean protein with relatively low carbs and moderate fats. The majority of calories come from olive oil and butter.

Shrimp scampi is high in cholesterol at around 200mg per serving, so limit intake if that is a concern. It also provides minerals like selenium, iron, potassium and calcium.

Cooking for a Crowd

Shrimp scampi makes a great dish for entertaining. Figure at least a half pound of shrimp per person.

For a party of four, use:

• 2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 8 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup parsley
• 1 pound linguine

This will allow for generous 6-8 ounce servings per person. Double it for bigger crowds, keeping the sauce ingredients proportional.

Serve with crusty bread and a simple green salad for a memorable Italian feast.

Freezing Leftovers

Got extra shrimp scampi? Freeze it for instant meals later on. Let it cool completely then transfer to ziplock bags or airtight containers. It will keep for 2-3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add extra sauce to moisten it up.

Frozen shrimp scampi makes an effortless work lunch or lazy dinner later in the week.

Kid-Friendly Servings

Shrimp scampi is a great way to introduce seafood to picky kids. Serve smaller 2-3 shrimp portions with pasta or rice. Let them dip the shrimp in sauce themselves.

For toddlers, chop or cut shrimp into bitesize pieces. Omit wine from the recipe. Serve with lots of buttered bread for dipping!

Start kids off with just 1-2 shrimp initially. They may acquire the taste for more over time.

• A standard serving of shrimp scampi is 4-6 ounces or 5-8 medium shrimp
• Stick to single servings and balance with veggies to control calories
• Order conservatively at restaurants or take home leftovers
• Nutrition includes lean protein, cholesterol, and minimal carbs
• Double recipes for entertaining, allowing 1/2 pound shrimp per guest
• Freeze extra for quick future meals
• Adjust serving sizes down for kids as needed

So now you’re a shrimp scampi expert! Use these guidelines to serve up this Italian favorite for any occasion.