Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is a low-carb version of the classic shrimp scampi, replacing traditional pasta with zucchini noodles. This easy, quick, and healthy dish is bursting with buttery, garlicky flavors and a refreshing lemon kick. It’s the perfect meal for anyone looking for a lighter yet delicious alternative to pasta.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)

• ¼ cup chicken stock

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 ½ pounds (4 medium-sized) zucchini, spiralized into noodles

• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turns pink, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Stir in chicken stock and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

3. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir until well combined, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.

4. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 214.3 per serving

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 10g

• Sodium: 950mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugars: 5g

The Appeal of Zucchini Shrimp Scampi

The classic shrimp scampi is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines shrimp with pasta, garlic, butter, and lemon. While delicious, traditional shrimp scampi is often paired with pasta, which adds a hefty dose of carbohydrates. Zucchini Shrimp Scampi removes the pasta in favor of zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” creating a healthier, lighter version that is still full of the delicious garlicky, buttery goodness everyone loves. The mild flavor and satisfying texture of zucchini serve as a perfect base for the shrimp and sauce, making this dish just as satisfying as the original, if not more.

Why Choose Zucchini Noodles?

Zucchini noodles are a great substitute for traditional pasta for several reasons. First, they are low in carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Unlike traditional pasta, which can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, zucchini noodles provide a light and refreshing base that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish or overly full. Furthermore, zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate, which adds a nutritional boost to the dish.

Zucchini noodles also have a naturally mild flavor, allowing them to easily absorb the rich, buttery sauce that defines shrimp scampi. When prepared correctly, zucchini noodles can have a pleasant, slightly firm texture, providing a satisfying “bite” without the heaviness of traditional pasta. Additionally, zucchini is made up of mostly water, so it cooks quickly, allowing the dish to come together in just a few minutes.

The Flavor Profile of Zucchini Shrimp Scampi

At the heart of this dish is the incredible flavor profile. The shrimp, cooked to a perfect pink with a quick sear in butter, brings a slightly sweet and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic and red pepper flakes. The garlic infuses the butter, creating a fragrant base for the sauce that coats the shrimp and noodles. The addition of red pepper flakes provides a subtle kick, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish and balancing the richness of the butter.

The bright citrusy tang from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter, giving the dish a refreshing twist. This lemony addition also helps to elevate the natural flavors of the shrimp, making them shine without overwhelming the palate. When combined with the delicate zucchini noodles, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.

The Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini Shrimp Scampi

One of the biggest benefits of Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is its nutritional profile. With only about 214 calories per serving, this dish is light but satisfying. The shrimp provide an excellent source of lean protein, with 28 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body health, making shrimp a great addition to any meal. The healthy fats from the butter also add a richness to the dish while keeping the meal relatively low in carbohydrates.

Zucchini, being high in water content, is a low-calorie vegetable that also provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness. With 2 grams of fiber per serving, this dish is an excellent way to boost fiber intake while keeping carbs in check. Additionally, zucchini is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps fight inflammation.

A Quick and Easy Meal for Any Occasion

Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is not only delicious and nutritious but also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, and the zucchini noodles only need a brief stir to heat through, ensuring that the dish retains its light, fresh quality.

Despite its simplicity, Zucchini Shrimp Scampi feels like an elevated meal, making it perfect for serving to guests or enjoying as a special dinner for yourself. The buttery sauce, succulent shrimp, and fresh parsley garnish add a touch of elegance, making it a wonderful dish for date nights, dinner parties, or family gatherings.

How to Customize Zucchini Shrimp Scampi

While Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is delicious as written, there are several ways to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a creamier version, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce, creating a richer, more indulgent dish. If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add extra lemon zest or juice to taste.

For added texture and flavor, consider tossing in a handful of cherry tomatoes or spinach along with the zucchini noodles. Cherry tomatoes will add a pop of color and sweetness, while spinach will bring in some additional nutrients and a lovely green hue. For those looking to add a bit more heat, experiment with fresh chopped chilies or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up further.

Serving Suggestions for Zucchini Shrimp Scampi

Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is a stand-alone dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. If you’re looking to keep the meal low-carb, consider serving it with a fresh green salad, sautéed asparagus, or roasted vegetables. The crispness of the salad or the earthy flavors of the vegetables will complement the richness of the shrimp scampi, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a heartier version of the dish, you can serve it alongside a small portion of quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice. These grains will add some substance to the meal while still keeping the overall carbohydrate count in check. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, also pairs beautifully with this dish, as the acidity and lightness of the wine enhance the flavors of the shrimp and lemon.

Conclusion

Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is the perfect blend of comfort and lightness, offering all the deliciousness of the classic shrimp scampi without the extra carbs. With its garlicky, buttery sauce, tender shrimp, and refreshing lemon zing, this dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes, Zucchini Shrimp Scampi is a fantastic choice. Easy to prepare, customizable, and full of flavor, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a light yet satisfying meal, give Zucchini Shrimp Scampi a try—you won’t regret it!