If you’re craving a tasty and light dish, you’re in the right place! Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles combines shrimps and fresh veggies for a healthy meal. This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Explore how to create this delightful recipe, step by step. Plus, get tips and ideas to make it your own. Let’s dive into this quick and healthy delight!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious meal:
– 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
– 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
– 3 cloves minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– 1/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
This list keeps your dish light but full of flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role. The shrimp gives protein, while zucchini adds fiber. Garlic brings a rich aroma. Lemon juice brightens the dish, making it fresh. Red pepper flakes add a hint of spice, but you can adjust them.
Using fresh ingredients ensures the best taste. When you spiralize the zucchini, it mimics pasta without the carbs. This makes your meal healthier and lighter.
For a complete guide, check the Full Recipe. It provides all the steps to make this tasty dish. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Make sure they are peeled and deveined.
– Next, wash the zucchinis and spiralize them into noodles. You can use a spiralizer for this.
– In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until you smell the garlic.
– Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
– Pour in 1/4 cup of low-sodium vegetable broth and the juice of 1 lemon. Stir everything together.
– Toss in the spiralized zucchini noodles and the zest of 1 lemon. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want the noodles to soften but stay firm.
– Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Serve immediately for the best taste. Garnish with extra lemon zest and parsley if you like.
For the full recipe, you can refer to the section above. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To get the best flavor from garlic, always use fresh cloves. Mince them finely to release their oils. Sauté the garlic in olive oil over medium heat for just one minute. This will give your dish a warm, rich aroma.
For cooking shrimp, use medium-high heat. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough.
Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, like 1/4 teaspoon. You can always add more if you want extra heat.
Enhancements
Add a tablespoon of unsalted butter for extra richness. The butter blends well with the lemon juice and shrimp, making the sauce creamy and lush.
If you want variety, substitute spiralized zucchini with other vegetables, like yellow squash or carrots. These options will still give you a tasty, healthy meal.
Using fresh herbs can boost the flavor even more. Try adding basil or cilantro for a fresh twist. These herbs elevate the dish and make it more vibrant.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Dish Customizations
You can switch out shrimp for different proteins. Try chicken or scallops for a tasty twist. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. They add great flavor without meat. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, check your broth and seasoning. Many brands offer gluten-free choices.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a light side salad. A simple mixed greens salad adds freshness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the tasty sauce. For a complete meal, add a fruit dessert. Leftovers can be stored easily and reheated. You can enjoy them the next day for lunch or dinner. Just add a little olive oil to revive the flavors.
Enjoy exploring these variations to make Skinny Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles even more delightful! For the full recipe, check out the link above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Skinny Shrimp Scampi fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up, which can make the dish soggy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Skinny Shrimp Scampi! Just place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help revive the dish. Stir gently until heated through. This keeps the shrimp tender and the zucchini noodles from getting mushy. Enjoy your meal again!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry before cooking. This keeps the shrimp juicy and tender.
What can I use instead of zucchini noodles?
You can use spaghetti squash or whole wheat pasta. Both options add different flavors and textures. If you want a low-carb meal, continue with zucchini noodles. They soak up the flavors well.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply skip the butter. The olive oil and broth will keep it rich. You may also add a splash of coconut milk if you want a creamy texture.
Additional Inquiries
What’s the nutritional information for Skinny Shrimp Scampi?
This dish is low in calories and high in protein. A serving has about 250 calories, 30g of protein, and 10g of carbs. It’s a healthy choice for a filling meal.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and zucchini in advance. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for the best taste and texture.
What are the best herbs to use for shrimp scampi?
Fresh parsley is a classic choice. You can also use basil or oregano for a different twist. These herbs add fresh flavors and brighten the dish.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Skinny Shrimp Scampi. We explored key ingredients like shrimp, zucchini, and garlic. I explained step-by-step cooking methods, shared helpful tips, and offered dish variations. Finally, I provided storage advice for your leftovers.
Cooking should be fun and easy. Try this quick recipe and enjoy fresh flavors. Your meals can be tasty and healthy. Don’t hesitate to add your twist to make it yours!
