Low Sodium Shrimp Scampi Recipe
As a home cook, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and healthy recipes to add to my repertoire. Today, I’m excited to share with you my low sodium shrimp scampi recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich flavours and succulent shrimp, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your household.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love This low sodium shrimp scampi recipe
- Low in sodium, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions
- Packed with flavour from the garlic, lemon, and herbs
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight
- Can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables
- Shrimp is a great source of protein, making it a nutritious option
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt-free seasoning blend
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Tip: Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients to get the best flavour out of your dish. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding or substituting different herbs and spices.
How to Make low sodium shrimp scampi recipe
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer and you can see a faint ripple on the surface.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and cooked through. You’ll hear a slight sizzling sound when the shrimp are done.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate. Leave the garlic and oil in the pan, as they’ll add flavour to the sauce.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and salt-free seasoning blend to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. You’ll see the sauce start to thicken and reduce slightly.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss them in the sauce to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully coated and the sauce has thickened to your liking. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce has a rich, velvety texture and the shrimp are fully glazed.
Tips From My Kitchen
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to get the best flavour out of your dish. For example, using fresh parsley and basil will give your dish a brighter, more vibrant flavour than using dried herbs.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. Cook them until they’re just pink and cooked through, then remove them from the heat.
- Customize the recipe to your taste by adding or substituting different herbs and spices. For example, you could add some dried thyme or oregano to give the dish a more Mediterranean flavour.
- Use a salt-free seasoning blend to keep the dish low in sodium. You can also use a homemade blend of herbs and spices to add flavour without adding salt.
- Serve the dish with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables. You could also try serving it with a side of Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes for a nutritious and filling meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Make sure to cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, to prevent them from becoming crowded and steaming instead of searing. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from becoming tough.
- Wrong temperature: Use a medium-high heat to cook the shrimp, as this will help them sear and cook evenly. If the heat is too low, the shrimp may become tough and rubbery.
- Skipping the rest time: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the flavours to meld together and the sauce to thicken. This will help the dish come together and ensure that the flavours are balanced.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the dish to give it a spicy kick. You could also try adding some spicy sausage, such as chorizo or chicken fajita-style sausage.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute the shrimp with some roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. You could also try using some plant-based protein sources, such as tofu or tempeh.
- Different Protein: Try using some other protein sources, such as chicken or turkey, in place of the shrimp. You could also try using some seafood options, such as scallops or mussels.
What to Serve With low sodium shrimp scampi recipe
- Pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine
- Rice, such as white or brown rice
- Vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
- A side salad, such as a simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of shrimp to use for this recipe?
The best type of shrimp to use for this recipe is large, peeled and deveined shrimp. You can also use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
Can I use other types of protein in place of the shrimp?
Yes, you can use other types of protein in place of the shrimp. Some options include chicken, turkey, or other types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and method according to the protein you choose.
How do I store leftovers of this recipe?
You can store leftovers of this recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish gently over low heat, adding a little bit of water or broth if necessary to prevent it from drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish up to the point where you add the shrimp, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to finish cooking it. Add the shrimp and cook according to the recipe instructions.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-sodium diet?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for a low-sodium diet. The dish is made with salt-free seasoning blend and low-sodium chicken broth, making it a great option for those who need to limit their sodium intake. Just be sure to check the labels of any store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
low sodium shrimp scampi recipe
A quick and easy low sodium shrimp scampi, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce with fresh herbs. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You'll know it's ready when the oil starts to shimmer and you can see a faint ripple on the surface.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they're pink and cooked through. You'll hear a slight sizzling sound when the shrimp are done.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate. Leave the garlic and oil in the pan, as they'll add flavour to the sauce.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and salt-free seasoning blend to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. You'll see the sauce start to thicken and reduce slightly.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss them in the sauce to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully coated and the sauce has thickened to your liking. You'll know it's done when the sauce has a rich, velvety texture and the shrimp are fully glazed.
Notes
Serve this low sodium shrimp scampi over whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste preference.
My husband, who’s usually picky, asked for seconds when I made this low sodium shrimp scampi recipe for dinner! I stumbled upon this combination by accident, and it’s been a hit ever since. If you have any questions or comments about this recipe, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can also check out some of my other recipes, such as High Protein Salmon And Quinoa Power Bowl or High Protein Baked Cod With Lemon Orzo, for more healthy and delicious meal ideas. For more information on healthy eating, you can also visit BBC Good Food.
