Easy Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles – Low Calorie Garlic Lemon Dinner

Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles are a light, low calorie twist on classic shrimp scampi, made with tender garlic lemon shrimp tossed over fresh spiralized zucchini noodles. This easy Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles recipe delivers all the bright, buttery, garlicky flavor you love without heavy pasta, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or a quick 30-minute meal. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in olive oil with garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh lemon zest, then combined with zucchini noodles that stay tender yet slightly crisp. Optional baby spinach and cherry tomatoes add freshness and color, while Parmesan cheese gives a savory finish. If you’re craving a healthy shrimp scampi recipe that’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of flavor, this dish is a satisfying, vibrant choice.

Introduction

There’s something timeless about shrimp scampi. The combination of garlic, lemon, olive oil, and tender shrimp creates a dish that feels elegant yet effortless. But traditional versions are often served over pasta, making them heavier than some of us want for an everyday dinner.

That’s where Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles come in.

By swapping traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles, you get the same bright, savory flavors in a lighter, fresher format. The zucchini absorbs the garlicky lemon sauce beautifully while keeping the dish vibrant and balanced. The shrimp cook quickly, staying juicy and tender, and the entire meal comes together in just 30 minutes.

This is the kind of recipe that works for busy weeknights, date nights at home, or when you simply want something nourishing without sacrificing flavor. It’s low calorie, high protein, and packed with fresh ingredients that feel as good as they taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low Calorie and High Protein: A satisfying meal at just 280 calories per serving.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Bright and Fresh Flavor: Garlic, lemon zest, and parsley make every bite vibrant.
• Light Yet Filling: Zucchini noodles keep the dish satisfying without heaviness.
• Customizable: Optional spinach, tomatoes, and Parmesan let you adjust to your taste.
• Perfect for Weeknights: Minimal prep and simple cooking method.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 bowl

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
• 2 cups baby spinach, optional
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, optional
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional, or additional olive oil for dairy-free
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Ingredient Roles

Shrimp provide lean protein and cook quickly for a tender texture.
Zucchini noodles replace traditional pasta while keeping the dish light.
Garlic and red pepper flakes add depth and gentle heat.
Lemon zest and juice brighten and balance the richness.
Olive oil and butter create a silky scampi-style sauce.
Parsley adds freshness and color.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Zester or microplane
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Spiralizer (if spiralizing fresh zucchini)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp
   Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Build the Garlic Base
   Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
4. Cook the Zucchini Noodles
   Add zucchini noodles and toss with tongs for 2 to 3 minutes until tender yet slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
5. Add Lemon and Tomatoes
   Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and cherry tomatoes if using. Toss ingredients to combine thoroughly.
6. Return Shrimp and Add Spinach
   Return shrimp with accumulated juices to the skillet. Add baby spinach if using and toss until just wilted.
7. Finish and Season
   Remove from heat. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve
   Divide among serving bowls and top with optional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Omit butter and Parmesan cheese, using additional olive oil instead.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Naturally gluten-free as written.
• Spice Level: Increase red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Add additional vegetables if desired.
• Texture Tip: Do not overcook zucchini noodles to prevent excess moisture.

Flavor Profile

Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles are bright, garlicky, and slightly buttery with a citrus-forward finish. The shrimp are tender and juicy, while the zucchini noodles offer a delicate bite that absorbs the lemon-garlic sauce. Red pepper flakes provide a subtle warmth, and parsley adds a fresh herbal note.

The overall dish feels light yet satisfying, with a silky texture from olive oil and butter balanced by the crisp-tender zucchini.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

This recipe is low calorie, high protein, and gluten-free.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep zucchini noodles ahead and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Cook shrimp fresh for best texture.
• Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking shrimp.
• Best enjoyed fresh due to zucchini moisture release.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

How do I prevent watery zucchini noodles?
Cook briefly and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I skip the butter?
Yes, use additional olive oil.

Is this keto-friendly?
It is low in carbohydrates.

Can I add pasta instead?
Zucchini noodles keep it light as written.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	15 minutes	30 minutes	4 servings

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately in shallow bowls to catch the lemon-garlic sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan just before serving for a polished look.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Lemon Version – Increase lemon zest slightly.
2. Spicy Scampi – Add more red pepper flakes.
3. Dairy-Free Style – Use olive oil only.
4. Tomato Forward – Use full 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp

Choose large shrimp that are firm and smell fresh. Cook only until pink and opaque to avoid toughness.

Zucchini

Select firm, medium-sized zucchini. Spiralize just before cooking for best texture.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat shrimp dry to achieve a quick sear.
• Cook shrimp in a single layer for even browning.
• Toss zucchini gently to maintain structure.
• Remove from heat promptly to preserve tenderness.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days.
• Not ideal for freezing due to zucchini texture.
• Reheat gently on stovetop.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Protein	30g
Carbs	18g
Fat	10g
Fiber	3g

Dietary Notes: Low calorie, high protein, gluten-free adaptable, dairy-free adaptable.

Expanded Conclusion

Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles prove that healthy dinners can still feel indulgent and satisfying. With tender shrimp, fresh zucchini noodles, and a bright garlic-lemon sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavor in just 30 minutes.

Save this recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you want something light yet deeply flavorful. It’s simple, elegant, and bound to become a regular in your healthy dinner rotation.

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