Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles Delight

Craving a light and tasty meal? Try my Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles! This fresh dish is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy a classic favorite without the extra calories. Juicy shrimp, garlic, and a zing of lemon come together over tender zucchini noodles. Join me as we explore the easy steps to create a deliciously healthy meal that you’ll love serving to family and friends!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Skinny Shrimp Scampi

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

Essential Seasonings and Extras

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– 1 lemon, juiced and zested

– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

When making Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh shrimp adds flavor and texture. Look for large shrimp that are firm and pink. Peel and devein them yourself for the best taste.

Zucchini noodles are a great base. Spiralizing zucchini gives a fun twist to this dish. They cook quickly and hold flavor well. You can use a spiralizer or a julienne peeler. The key is to make even, thin noodles for a great bite.

The olive oil is essential for sautéing. It gives richness and depth to the dish. Garlic adds a strong aroma and flavor. Use fresh garlic; it’s much better than pre-minced. Red pepper flakes bring a nice kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. They cut through the richness of the shrimp and oil. Chicken broth adds moisture and enhances flavor. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.

Lastly, garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. You can sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra richness.

For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe. This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.

– Once hot, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for around 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

– Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque.

Cooking the Zucchini Noodles

– In the same skillet, pour in the last tablespoon of olive oil and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

– Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently in the broth. Cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring often, until the noodles are tender yet still al dente.

Combining and Serving the Dish

– Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat through for about 1 more minute.

– Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness.

– Serve the dish right away on warm plates. Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want it.

For the complete details and measurements, check the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Zucchini Noodles

To make great zucchini noodles, start by choosing firm zucchinis. Look for ones that are not too big. Bigger zucchinis can be watery.

To avoid watery zucchini noodles, salt them lightly before cooking. This helps draw out excess moisture. After salting, let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

For spiralizing, use a good quality spiralizer. Hold the zucchini with one hand and twist it. This will give you long, even noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler for wider ribbons if you prefer.

Making Ahead and Meal Prepping

To prepare this dish in advance, cook the shrimp and store them in the fridge. You can spiralize the zucchini a day ahead too. Just keep them in an airtight container.

When storing, keep the shrimp separate from the noodles. This helps to keep the noodles from getting soggy.

For freshness, consume within two days. Reheat the shrimp, then toss in the noodles just before serving.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Add more herbs for extra flavor. Fresh basil or thyme pairs well with shrimp. You can also try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch.

For more texture, consider adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. They cook quickly and brighten the dish.

Another option is to swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth. This keeps it light but adds depth to the flavor.

If you want a richer taste, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess.

For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe] section to get started on your culinary adventure!

Variations

Low-Carb Alternatives

For a tasty twist, you can swap out zucchini noodles. Consider using these options:

– Spaghetti squash

– Shirataki noodles

– Carrot noodles

These alternatives keep your dish low in carbs. They also add unique flavors and textures.

If you want to change the chicken broth, try vegetable broth. This swap adds a different taste without losing the low-sodium benefit. You can also use homemade broth for even more flavor.

Add-Ins and Customizations

You can boost your dish with extra vegetables. Here are some great choices:

– Cherry tomatoes

– Spinach

– Bell peppers

These add color and make your meal more nutritious. You can sauté them with the garlic or mix them in at the end.

Want more protein? You can switch shrimp for:

– Scallops

– Chicken breast

– Firm tofu

Each choice brings its own flavor. This way, you can keep your meals exciting and varied.

Dietary Options

If you need gluten-free options, this dish is already safe. Just make sure your broth is gluten-free.

For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan cheese. You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps your dish creamy and satisfying.

By making these small changes, you can enjoy a personalized Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.

Storage Info

Proper Cooling and Refrigeration

After you enjoy your Skinny Shrimp Scampi, store any leftovers in a safe way. Let the dish cool down for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent condensation in the container. Use airtight containers to keep the shrimp and zucchini fresh. Glass or plastic containers work well. You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Guidelines

When you’re ready to eat again, reheating is key. The best way to reheat shrimp scampi is on the stove. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until it’s warm. If you want to refresh the flavors, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over it.

Freezing Recommendations

If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the dish. Start by letting it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.

For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

FAQs

How long does it take to make Skinny Shrimp Scampi?

It takes about 20 minutes to make Skinny Shrimp Scampi. You need around 10 minutes for prep. Cooking takes about 10 minutes. This quick time makes it great for busy nights.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. First, thaw them in cold water. It takes about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, drain them well. Cook them just like fresh shrimp for the best taste.

What do I serve with Skinny Shrimp Scampi?

You can serve this dish with a green salad or garlic bread. Steamed vegetables also pair well. For a light meal, try a side of mixed greens. Wine lovers might enjoy a crisp white wine with it.

In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious Skinny Shrimp Scampi. You learned about the main ingredients, crucial seasonings, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for perfect zucchini noodles and how to prep meals ahead of time. We also discussed variations and dietary options to suit your needs.

As you try this recipe, remember that customization is key. Enjoy your healthy meal packed with flavor and nutrients!

Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Savor the delightful flavors of Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles! This healthy and delicious dish features succulent shrimp paired with light, spiralized zucchini, sautéed in garlic and lemon for a refreshing taste. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a guilt-free treat that's sure to impress your family and friends!

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Ingredients

  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to spice preference)

1 lemon, juiced and zested

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

 

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1 minute.

Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for approximately 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque.

Carefully remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Set aside while you prepare the zucchini noodles.

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil alongside the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, and toss them gently in the broth. Cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring regularly, until the noodles are just tender yet still al dente.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zested lemon. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat through for about 1 additional minute.

Once heated, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness.

Serve the dish immediately on warm plates, offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who wish to indulge.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, consider serving the shrimp scampi in pasta bowls, with extra chopped parsley sprinkled over the top. Add a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze over their dish.