Low Carb Shrimp Scampi With Spaghetti Squash
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious meal option that won't leave you feeling guilty? Look no further than this low carb shrimp scampi with spaghetti squash recipe. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also low in carbs, making it the perfect option for anyone watching their carb intake.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about spaghetti squash. This unique vegetable is an excellent alternative to traditional pasta, as it has a similar texture but is much lower in carbs. When cooked, the flesh of a spaghetti squash separates into thin, spaghetti-like strands, making it the perfect substitute for pasta in a variety of dishes.
The Benefits of Low Carb Shrimp Scampi With Spaghetti Squash
Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also packed with health benefits. Here are just a few of the benefits of low carb shrimp scampi with spaghetti squash:
- Low in carbs: This dish is an excellent option for anyone watching their carb intake.
- High in protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Both shrimp and spaghetti squash are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and zinc.
- Low in calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight.
- Heart-healthy: Shrimp is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Ingredients
Now that we've covered the benefits let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
- 1 pound of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of white wine
- 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of butter, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it's time to start cooking:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Place the spaghetti squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
- While the spaghetti squash is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chicken broth, white wine, and lemon juice to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the butter, one piece at a time, until it's fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet with the shrimp and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Conclusion
Low carb shrimp scampi with spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy meal option that's perfect for anyone looking to watch their carb intake without sacrificing flavor. Not only is it packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but it's also heart-healthy and relatively low in calories. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself just how delicious and nutritious it can be?