Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick dinner? Look no further! This Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Using frozen shrimp makes this dish incredibly convenient, and the vibrant flavors will transport your taste buds to a seaside trattoria. It's a fantastic example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be, perfect for anyone looking for healthy meals and easy recipes. This recipe is also a great source of protein and low in carbs, making it a winner for those watching their waistlines.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized or julienned into noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Prep the Shrimp: If your shrimp are still frozen, gently thaw them under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures they brown nicely and don't steam in the pan.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
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Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two until slightly reduced. Chicken broth works equally well for a non-alcoholic version.
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Add Zucchini Noodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the shrimp and garlic mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender-crisp.
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Finish the Dish: Stir in the lemon juice, butter, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until the zucchini is well coated and the butter is melted.
Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Scampi:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the shrimp in batches ensures they brown properly and don't steam.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the scampi before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
- Fresh herbs are best: Fresh parsley adds a bright, vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp: Increase the butter and lemon juice for an even more intense lemon-garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal. Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) would include approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This quick dinner idea is a perfect example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. This recipe is an excellent addition to your collection of best recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy your homemade culinary masterpiece!