When you whip up a classic shrimp scampi, you’re diving into a dish brimming with flavor and comfort.
This adaptation swaps traditional pasta for zoodles, giving you a delicious low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. In just 15-30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that highlights succulent shrimp, buttery sauce, and tangy lemon. The high-fiber zucchini not only enhances the dish’s nutritional profile but also retains the classic buttery and lemony essence we all love. Plus, the cooking method is straightforward: sauté garlic and shrimp in a skillet, add your sauce ingredients, and toss in the zoodles right at the end. Incorporating fresh zucchini into the dish not only boosts its texture but also contributes to its overall health benefits.
It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful option for any dinner table!
Ingredients List
To make a delicious Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles, gather the following ingredients:
For the Shrimp and Zoodles:
1-2 pounds peeled and deveined shrimp
2-4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 shallot, finely chopped (optional)
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 ½ to 4 pounds zucchini, spiralized into zoodlesFor the Sauce:
2-4 tablespoons butter or olive oil
½ to 1 cup chicken broth or white wine
Juice of ½ to 1 lemonOptional Ingredients:
½ cup vegetable broth or red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons lemon paste (for extra zest)Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these easy steps to prepare your Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles:
Spiralize the Zucchini
Begin by spiralizing the zucchini into noodle strands, adjusting the thickness to your preference. Set the zoodles aside in a bowl.
Cook the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped shallot (if using) or garlic and cook until fragrant.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, along with salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are slightly translucent. If necessary, remove the shrimp from the skillet to prevent overcooking.
Prepare the Sauce
Pour in the broth (chicken or vegetable), add the lemon zest and juice, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Combine the Zoodles
Add the spiralized zoodles to the skillet, then return the shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve your Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles immediately.Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish!
Cooking Tips
Cooking Shrimp Scampi with zoodles can be a delightful experience if you keep a few tips in mind. Here are three key points to guarantee your dish turns out perfectly:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for wild-caught shrimp for better flavor and confirm they’re completely thawed before cooking. Additionally, shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that’s beneficial for a healthy diet.
- Cook Separately: Sear the shrimp on medium-low heat for 2-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. This prevents overcooking and gives a nice char.
- Perfect Zoodles: Spiralize larger zucchinis for longer strands and cook them for just 1-2 minutes to avoid mushiness. Consume them the same day to maintain their texture.
Serving Suggestions
After mastering the cooking techniques for shrimp scampi with zoodles, it’s time to think about how to serve this delicious dish.
You’ll find that it stands well on its own as a complete meal, thanks to its high protein and vegetable content. However, pairing it with a fresh chopped salad, like a kale Caesar, can elevate your dining experience. Additionally, this dish is ideal for summer when fresh produce is abundant, making it a perfect choice for seasonal dining.
For a heartier option, consider serving it over rice or mixing in some whole wheat pasta. If you want to add extra flavor, roasted asparagus is an excellent side.
Don’t forget some whole grain bread for scooping up that delightful sauce!
Experimenting with different types of zucchini noodles can also change the dish’s texture and appeal. Enjoy!
Storing
When you have leftovers of shrimp scampi with zoodles, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here are some tips to keep your dish delightful for later enjoyment:
- Use an airtight container: Whether glass or plastic, make sure it’s sealed tightly to preserve taste.
- Refrigerate promptly: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the quality may decline.
- Freeze for longer storage: If you need more time, leftovers can be frozen for 1-2 months. Just use an airtight container or freezer bag.
When reheating, warm it in a skillet with a little oil for the best texture. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Health Benefits
Leftover shrimp scampi with zoodles not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Shrimp is high in protein, making it essential for muscle growth and repair, while being low in calories—just about 240 for a pound. This combination supports weight management and overall health.
Zucchini noodles are low in carbs and calories, helping you manage blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight. They’re also high in fiber, promoting digestive health.
Garlic adds its own benefits, boosting your immune system and supporting heart health with its antioxidants. Together, this dish is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that can benefit your overall well-being while keeping your meals deliciously satisfying.
What to serve with it
Serving shrimp scampi with zoodles opens up a world of delicious pairings that can enhance your dining experience.
This dish is satisfying enough to stand alone, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider these options:
- A Light Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish and adds extra fiber.
- Garlic Bread: Whole grain garlic bread is a classic choice that adds a comforting crunch, perfect for mopping up the flavorful sauce.
- Sautéed Greens: Quick sautéed spinach or kale adds nutrients and brightens up your plate, keeping the meal vibrant and healthy.
With these pairings, you’ll create a well-rounded and enjoyable dinner that’s sure to impress!
