Tired of the same old pasta night? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's quick to prepare? Then look no further! This shrimp with spaghetti squash recipe is the perfect answer. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's surprisingly easy to make, packed with nutrients, and ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights and healthy meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Spaghetti Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Cooking the Shrimp:
- While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
Combining and Serving:
- Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, let it cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape the flesh from the squash, creating “spaghetti” strands.
- Add the cooked spaghetti squash to the skillet with the shrimp and stir gently to combine.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp with Spaghetti Squash:
- Choose high-quality shrimp: The flavor of your dish will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality shrimp.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, consider adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini to the skillet with the shrimp.
Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: Add the zest of one lemon to the skillet along with the garlic for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Spicy Shrimp: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
- Creamy Shrimp: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, it’s generally a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This easy recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight meal or a special occasion. It’s versatile, delicious, and a wonderful example of homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy!