Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Name: Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs.); 1 ½ lbs peeled shrimp; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons butter; ½ cup white apple vinegar or chicken stock; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 2 ounces baby spinach; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: July 13, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Alternative: Enjoy a guilt-free meal with fewer carbs compared to traditional pasta.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp ensures an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it elegantly in the spaghetti squash halves for a stunning table display.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe easier, gather the essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking tray
Sharp knife
Large pan
Mixing bowl
Fork

Importance of Each Tool

Baking tray: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly without mess.
Sharp knife: Helps you cut through the tough skin of the spaghetti squash safely and easily.
Large pan: Provides enough space to cook the shrimp and combine all ingredients without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For this delicious Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you will need:

For the Shrimp Scampi

1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs.)
1 ½ lb peeled shrimp
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon EACH: salt and pepper
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
½ cup white apple vinegar or chicken stock
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
2 ounces baby spinach

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the spaghetti squash into rounds about 1 1/2 inches thick and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the flesh can be easily pierced with a fork. Turn them over halfway through baking. Once done, let them cool slightly before cutting each round once and pulling the strands away from the skin to create long noodles.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the spaghetti squash bakes, prepare your shrimp. In a mixing bowl, toss together the peeled shrimp with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add seasoned shrimp to the pan and cook for around 2 minutes or until they just begin to turn pink.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in white apple vinegar or chicken stock along with fresh lemon juice into the pan. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Finally, add baby spinach and allow it to wilt slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your flavorful shrimp scampi over the prepared spaghetti squash noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Serving Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant flavors and delightful textures. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds creamy richness and complements the dish perfectly.

Add Garlic Bread

Toasted Baguette: Serve slices of toasted baguette brushed with garlic butter for a crunchy side that balances the meal.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: A cheesy twist adds extra flavor and indulgence to your dinner.

Include Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill sliced zucchini and bell peppers for a smoky touch that pairs well with shrimp scampi.
Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus adds a pop of color and a tender crunch.

Offer White Wine

Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the lemony flavors in the dish.
Sauvignon Blanc: This wine’s crispness refreshes your palate while enjoying the meal.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Perfecting your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for great results.

Choose Ripe Squash: Look for firm, heavy spaghetti squash with a uniform color for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them tough.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice will elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more seasoning or herbs according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Adding sides can enhance your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside your dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that complements the shrimp nicely.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber and feta offers freshness and protein.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and health benefits to your meal.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers make for an elegant appetizer or side.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and pairs well with seafood flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Not Cutting the Squash Properly: Ensure you cut the spaghetti squash into even rounds. This helps it cook uniformly and makes it easier to scrape into noodles.
Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. If you overcook it, it can become tough. Cook until just pink to keep it tender.
Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always season your shrimp well before cooking for a delicious result.
Using the Wrong Cooking Liquid: Opt for white apple vinegar or chicken stock for the best flavor. Substituting with other liquids may alter the taste of your dish.
Not Wilting the Spinach Enough: Adding spinach at the right time is crucial. Let it wilt properly in the sauce for enhanced flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Best if consumed within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated thoroughly.
Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done?

The squash is ready when its flesh is tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.

Can I customize my Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch up the seasoning to suit your taste.

What can I serve with Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great healthy dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices as you like! This healthy dinner option will surely impress everyone at your table, so don’t hesitate to give it a try!

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