Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Juicy, plump shrimp are tossed in a vibrant sauce of fresh garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. This quick and easy low-sodium scampi is packed with flavor from herbs and a hint of chili, ready in just 15 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the ingredients
1.If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear well.2.Thinly slice the garlic cloves and chop the fresh parsley.3.Squeeze the lemon to get fresh juice.Sauté the aromatics
1.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.2.Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan.3.Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.Cook the shrimp
1.Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.2.Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.3.Avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp tough.Finish and serve
1.Remove the skillet from the heat.2.Stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.3.Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly in the sauce.4.Serve immediately over whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or brown rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Patting the shrimp dry is crucial for getting a good sear instead of steaming them.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly.
- 3Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can have a dull, bitter taste.
- 4For extra flavor, add a splash of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth along with the lemon juice.
- 5Leftover shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Serve it with gluten-free pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles to keep the entire meal gluten-free.
spicySpicy
For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper with the garlic.
healthyHealthy
Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed spinach, quinoa, or a large green salad for a light and healthy meal.
ckd friendlyCkd friendly
To make this more kidney-friendly, use a salt substitute, reduce the shrimp portion to 85g per serving, and serve with white pasta or white rice to manage phosphorus and potassium levels. Ensure total meal sodium is under 400mg.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Shrimp provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and building, while being low in calories.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Using olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Antioxidants
Garlic and parsley are packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect your cells from damage.
Low in Sodium
This recipe is specifically designed to be low in sodium, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version of Garlic Shrimp Scampi is quite healthy. It's low in sodium and saturated fat, using heart-healthy olive oil. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, and the dish is flavored with fresh, natural ingredients like garlic and lemon.
