Wholesome Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe Healthy Shrimp Dinner Idea Smart Dinner Choice
A wholesome, easy-to-make shrimp scampi that’s perfect for a healthy dinner. Quick, flavorful, and packed with fresh ingredients, this dish is a smart choice for any weeknight or casual gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
· 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
· 5 cloves garlic, minced
· ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
· Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
· Zest of 1 lemon
· ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
· ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
· ¼ teaspoon black pepper
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
· 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti or your choice of pasta
· Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes.
4. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
5. Add broth, lemon juice, and zest to skillet. Simmer 2-3 minutes, then stir in remaining butter.
6. Return shrimp to skillet, toss to coat, and add reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Stir in parsley and adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta with optional Parmesan.
Notes
· Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture.
· Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
· Add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
· Sauce can be prepared ahead, but shrimp should be cooked fresh.