Go Back

Easy Healthy Shrimp Scampi - Light, Bright, and Weeknight-Friendly

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or an extra tablespoon olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or dry white wine
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2–3 tablespoons juice)
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti or 4 cups zucchini noodles
  • Optional garnish: extra lemon wedges and a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp sear better and won’t steam.
  2. Start the base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth or white wine. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly. This builds a light, flavorful sauce.
  4. Add shrimp: Nestle the shrimp into the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  5. Finish the sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the butter until melted, then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley. Toss to coat. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon.
  6. Serve your way: If using pasta, cook it al dente and transfer it straight to the skillet with a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. For zucchini noodles, lightly sauté them in a separate pan for 1–2 minutes, then top with shrimp and sauce.
  7. Garnish: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon, a pinch more parsley, and a light sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.