Shrimp Scampi...Still Needs a Little Work.

Sundays are one of my favorite days of the week.  We usually start with a great breakfast before rushing to get ready for church.  Some days are really rushed, and others are leisurely and fun.  Not too sure what changes week to week but we always seem to make it.  After church, we have a light lunch before settling in for a great nap.  Not sure why, but a Sunday is not complete without a nap.  I have enjoyed this afternoon ritual since I was a child.  It doesn't have to be long, but a few moments of rest are the perfect antidote for a busy week. 

Sunday is also a time we enjoy a peaceful family meal. Last night, we decided Shrimp Scampi with pasta would be a great dinner.   We brought back a few pounds of fresh Gulf shrimp when we went to the beach for Fall Break, and I needed to use them sooner than later.  They have been looking at me each time I opened the freezer door. The thought of the tender shrimp, coated in a garlic butter sauce, with just a slight hint of lemon seemed just the right flavor profile for our dinner.  Even my children usually love this meal.  I had everything except white wine. I thought I would just try and substitute a beer for the wine in the sauce.  It made sense to me... not quite the same, but after it cooks, who will know anyway?  Let's just say our Scampi was missing something... the distinct taste given by the white wine.  I have never had this fail before, but I have never substituted beer for wine either.  I am blaming it on the substitution, but I can't smell right now either.  Maybe the combination is the problem.  Next time will be better!

I share this with you so you can see that I too don't make everything perfectly.  I have trials and errors, and have thrown away more food than you can imagine.  I will make this again in a few weeks, after Scott forgets how flavorless this was, and I will share the successes with you.  The joy of cooking is not just making the perfect dish each and every time.  It is learning what flavors you and your family enjoy and making the dish your very own. 

On the bright side, we had a great salad on the side, so all was not lost. 

Until next time, keep adventurng and looking for joy in the small details of life!

Sarah



Looks can be deceptive...