Shrimp Scampi With Basmati Rice

While the hot-water tap runs, put the rice in a 2-quart saucepan. Add the water and salt. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes. Turn the heat off and keep covered until ready to serve.

Or, put the rice, hot water, and salt in a 2-quart microwave-safe container. Cover and put in a microwave oven on high power for 10 minutes. Keep covered until ready to serve.

Meanwhile, if using shrimp in the shell, peel the shrimp but leave the tails on. Put the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Peel and chop the garlic. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

Add the shrimp to the skillet, increase the heat to medium, and cook for 2 minutes on one side. While the shrimp cook, season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Juice the lemon half. Turn the shrimp over and cook for 1 minute. Then add the lemon juice and wine to the skillet. Raise the heat to high and cook for 2 minutes, stirring to mix well. Chop the leaves of the parsley and cut the butter into 4 pieces.

Add the parsley and the butter to the skillet. Stir just until the butter is melted and incorporated, giving the sauce a creamy texture. Remove from the heat and serve with the rice.