Introduction:
Lightened Up Shrimp Scampi offers a fresh take on the beloved classic, allowing you to indulge in the rich flavors of this dish without the guilt. With a few simple swaps and adjustments, this recipe retains all the deliciousness of traditional shrimp scampi while reducing calories and fat content. Get ready to savor every bite of tender shrimp, garlic-infused sauce, and vibrant herbs without compromising on taste.
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Ingredients:
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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8 oz whole wheat spaghetti or your preferred pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup white wine (optional)
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pasta: Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Deglaze the Pan: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss with the pasta and sauce until everything is well combined.
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Finish with Fresh Herbs: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and pasta. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and toss to incorporate.
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Serve and Garnish: Divide the Lightened Up Shrimp Scampi among serving plates. If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion:
Lightened Up Shrimp Scampi is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering all the satisfaction of traditional shrimp scampi with a healthier twist. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence and savor every bite of this light and flavorful meal.