National Shrimp Scampi Day

Joyful person in a seafood restaurant, smiling while enjoying a plate of shrimp scampi, surrounded by nautical decor and a coastal setting.. — National shrimp scampi day illustration

Ahoy there, seafood enthusiasts! Buckle up, because we're going on a saucy, buttery journey through the tale of National Shrimp Scampi Day. It turns out this shellfish sensation has made quite a splash on the internet, seeing as we've spotted 2021 mentions of this delicious day online!

When is Shrimp Scampi Day?

It's national shrimp scampi day on the 29th April.

Caught in the Net: The Digital Debut of Shrimp Scampi Day

While we aren't entirely sure who first dropped their shrimp nets and declared 'Let's have a day celebrating the succulent Shrimp Scampi!', we do know that the internet welcomed this day with open arms and empty stomachs. According to our records, the most mentions of National Shrimp Scampi Day were discovered in the wild waves of the internet on 29th April 2015. Why then, you might ask? Well, perhaps it was a particularly good year for shrimp, or maybe garlic butter was on sale?

Saucy Notions: The Appeal of Shrimp Scampi Day

Humble shrimp, when paired with lemon, garlic, butter, and a sprinkle of parsley, are elevated to a mouth-watering masterpiece that leaves even the most seasoned foodies drooling. There's something truly special about this scampi spectacle, and the internet agrees! Our digital dive reveals a sea of recipes, fond reminiscences of seafood dinners, and a tidal wave of mouth-watering #shrimpscampi posts.

Netting the Benefits: Sharing the Scampi Love

Annual celebrations of National Shrimp Scampi Day offer a chance for people to connect over cooking - sharing recipes, cooking tips, and inevitably, pictures of their sumptuous shrimp. Even for those folks who can't tell a saucepan from a frying pan, it's a great opportunity to visit a favorite seafood restaurant, or maybe even try preparing a shrimp dish for the first time!

History behind the term 'Shrimp Scampi'

1969

The Birth of Scampi

The term 'shrimp scampi' originated in 1969 when a popular Italian-American cookbook, 'The Classic Italian Cook Book' by Marcella Hazan, was published. In this cookbook, Hazan introduced the dish as 'shrimp scampi,' which quickly gained popularity among food enthusiasts.

1970s

The Scampi Enigma

The origins of the term 'scampi' itself are a bit mysterious. Though 'scampi' is often associated with shrimp, it actually refers to a type of crustacean similar to a small lobster, commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea. However, in the United States, shrimp is typically used instead of true scampi, as its availability is more widespread.

1980s

Shrimp Scampi Goes Mainstream

In the 1980s, 'shrimp scampi' started to gain even more popularity and became a staple dish on Italian-American restaurant menus across the United States. The combination of succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce became a favorite among seafood lovers.

1990s

Cultural Influences

During the 1990s, with the rise of cooking shows and the emergence of celebrity chefs, 'shrimp scampi' received broader exposure and became a staple recipe in many home kitchens. Its simplicity and flavorful profile made it an attractive option for those seeking a quick and delicious meal.

Present

Continued Popularity

Today, 'shrimp scampi' remains a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and is readily available in restaurants and home kitchens around the world. Its rich history, combined with its delicious taste, has solidified its place as a beloved dish that continues to stand the test of time.

Did you know?

Did you know that 'scampi' is actually an Italian term for 'prawns'? But don't let that 'prawn' in your shrimp-loving parade, they're virtually the same thing, give or take a few legs and a splash of oceanic geography!