Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

The light and delicious texture of this Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is the perfect easy weeknight meal! Comfort food without the carbs, this dish combines rich flavors with a healthier twist. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavors of traditional shrimp scampi without the heavy pasta, making it perfect for low-carb diets.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon gives this dish a fresh and vibrant taste that elevates your dining experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out shrimp for chicken or add more vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Impressive Presentation: The bright colors of spinach and garnishes make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the spaghetti squash for optimal texture.
• Sharp knife: Aids in safely cutting through the tough spaghetti squash skin.
• Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook shrimp and vegetables without overcrowding.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2.5-3 pound spaghetti squash
– 3 tablespoons Danish Creamery salted butter (divided)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– 4 garlic cloves (minced)
– ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
– 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 5 ounces baby spinach
– ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth
– ½ lemon (juiced, plus wedges for garnish)
– Parsley (chopped, for serving)
– Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking during roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Place the spaghetti squash on a cutting board.
2. Carefully slice 1–2 inch rings across the squash. Try to keep them as even as possible for uniform cooking.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

1. Arrange the squash rings on the prepared baking sheet with space between each piece.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and brush it over the tops of each squash ring.
3. Roast in the oven until tender, which should take about 30–40 minutes.

Step 4: Shred the Squash

Once roasted, use a fork to pull apart the strands of spaghetti squash. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Introduce shrimp into the skillet; cook until they turn opaque and pink—this should take about 2 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside in a bowl.

Step 6: Sauté Spinach

In the same skillet:
1. Add baby spinach and stir until wilted (about 1 minute).
2. Stir in vegetable broth and lemon juice; let simmer until slightly reduced (approximately 2 minutes).

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked shrimp along with any juices back into the skillet along with shredded spaghetti squash strands. Carefully toss everything together until combined.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Plate your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi hot! Serve with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your dining experience with a few simple serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and presentation of this dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil can provide a sweet aroma and additional flavor.

Pair with Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra zing. Squeezing fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully.

Add Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese enhances the savory notes of shrimp scampi.

Serve in a Bowl

• Bowl Presentation: Presenting your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi in a bowl allows for easy mixing and serves as a cozy, comforting meal.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Offering warm garlic bread on the side allows guests to soak up any remaining sauce.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

To make your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic will significantly elevate the flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque for the best texture; they can become rubbery if overcooked.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your taste.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Adding other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini can enrich the dish without adding many carbs.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Pairing side dishes with your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds crunch and pairs well with seafood.
2. Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli brings out nutty flavors that complement the shrimp.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness and richness that balances the lightness of spaghetti squash.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting side if you want something heartier.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides coolness and crunch, ideal for balancing rich flavors.
6. Caprese Skewers: Tomato, basil, and mozzarella skewers are light appetizers that add an Italian flair to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the final dish. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Cooking the Squash Properly: If you undercook the spaghetti squash, it will be crunchy and not tender. Ensure you roast it for 30-40 minutes until it’s fork-tender.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Aim for just 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and pink.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland flavors. Season the spaghetti squash after roasting and taste the shrimp mixture before serving.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt levels. This will help maintain a balanced flavor in your dish without overwhelming saltiness.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes like parsley and lemon wedges add freshness and brightness. Don’t skip them; they enhance both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

• Timeframe: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti squash?

Yes! If you’re not following a low-carb diet, you can substitute traditional pasta for spaghetti squash in this recipe while keeping the shrimp scampi sauce.

How do I know when my shrimp is cooked in Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp is perfectly cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It typically takes about 2 minutes per side on medium heat.

How should I store leftovers of Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Can I customize my Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or switch up the protein by using chicken instead of shrimp.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is not only light and delicious but also offers versatility for customization. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today for an easy weeknight meal that satisfies cravings without packing on the carbs!

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Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of a classic shrimp scampi with a healthy twist in this Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi. This delightful dish features tender strands of spaghetti squash, perfectly sautéed shrimp, and a vibrant blend of garlic, butter, and lemon. In just under an hour, you can create a low-carb meal that feels indulgent yet nutritious—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of fresh spinach and ample seasoning elevates the taste while keeping it light. Impress your family or guests with this simple yet elegant recipe that showcases how easy healthy eating can be!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2.5–3 pound spaghetti squash
• 3 tablespoons Danish Creamery salted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth
• Juice of ½ lemon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut spaghetti squash into rings and arrange on the baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and roast for 30–40 minutes until tender.
3. Shred the roasted squash strands with a fork; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. Add shrimp; cook until pink (about 2 minutes per side). Set aside.
6. Sauté spinach in the same skillet until wilted; stir in vegetable broth and lemon juice.
7. Combine shrimp and shredded squash into the skillet; toss to coat and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: For added spice, incorporate more crushed red pepper. Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.