Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

The light and delicious texture of this Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is the perfect easy weeknight meal! It’s a comforting dish that offers all the flavors of traditional shrimp scampi while keeping things low-carb. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the classic flavors of shrimp scampi without the heavy carbs.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 55 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates an irresistible taste.
• Vegetable Boost: The addition of spinach adds nutrients and color to your plate.
• Easy Cleanup: Roasting spaghetti squash on a baking sheet makes for minimal cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Skillet
• Cooking brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the spaghetti squash, ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and shrimp quickly, locking in flavor.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through the tough spaghetti squash easier and safer.

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Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2.5-3 pound spaghetti squash
• 3 tablespoons Danish Creamery salted butter (divided)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Shrimp Scampi Sauce

• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth
• ½ lemon (juiced, plus wedges for garnish)
• Parsley (chopped, for serving)
• Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Place the spaghetti squash on a cutting board.
2. Slice it into 1-2 inch rings across its length, keeping them as uniform as possible.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

1. Arrange the squash rings on the lined baking pan with space in between each ring.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and brush it over the tops of the squash rings.
3. Roast in the oven until tender, about 30-40 minutes.
4. Once done, use a fork to pull apart the strands and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until they turn opaque and pink (about 2 minutes per side).
4. Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside in a bowl.

Step 5: Sauté Spinach

1. In the same skillet, add baby spinach.
2. Stir for about one minute until it wilts down.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and lemon juice; simmer until slightly reduced (about 2 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return shrimp along with any juices back into the skillet, then add roasted spaghetti squash strands. Carefully toss everything together to combine well.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi warm with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and grated parmesan cheese if desired.

This delightful dish is sure to impress at your dinner table while being easy enough to whip up on any busy night! Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Serving Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is simple yet elegant. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to each plate.
• Basil: Fresh basil can complement the flavors wonderfully and give an aromatic touch.

Pair with Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges: Serving wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Add Colorful Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be served alongside for added nutrition and visual appeal.
• Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the scampi.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offering freshly grated parmesan cheese allows everyone to customize their dish according to their taste preference.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

To create the perfect Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi, attention to detail in preparation and cooking is key. Here are some tips to help you make this dish shine.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shrimp will elevate the flavor significantly compared to frozen or pre-packaged options.
• Control Heat: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery; aim for just 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Spinach: Adding spinach at the right time ensures it wilts without losing its vibrant color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Complementing your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your scampi.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a creamy element that pairs beautifully.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crunchy texture and fresh taste that balances well with the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with veggies provides a nutty flavor and additional protein, making it a hearty pairing.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a caramelized sweetness that complements the savory shrimp perfectly.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an appealing appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi.

• Ignoring the squash size: Using a spaghetti squash that is too large or too small can affect cooking time and texture. Aim for a squash between 2.5 to 3 pounds for best results.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. Watch carefully and cook until they are just pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side.
• Not seasoning adequately: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Season your ingredients at every stage, especially after roasting the spaghetti squash.
• Using low-quality broth: A subpar vegetable broth can diminish flavor. Choose a low sodium, high-quality broth to enhance your dish’s overall taste.
• Forgetting to toss everything together: Not combining all elements thoroughly can lead to uneven flavors. Make sure to gently toss the shrimp with the spaghetti squash and sauce before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions if you want easy meal access later.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi.

What is Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is a light dish featuring roasted spaghetti squash tossed with sautéed shrimp in garlic butter sauce, garnished with spinach and lemon.

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I know when spaghetti squash is cooked?

Spaghetti squash is done when it is tender enough to easily shred into strands with a fork, typically after roasting for 30-40 minutes.

What are good side dishes for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different veggies or adjusting the seasonings according to your preference. Give this healthy comfort food a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners!