Scampi Primavera
Scampi Primavera is a vibrant pasta dish featuring tender shrimp and colorful vegetables tossed in a lemon-garlic sauce. Its fresh, zesty flavors make it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that appeals to seafood lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti or vermicelli ⓘ
- 3/4 cup olive oil ⓘ
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped lemon peel ⓘ
- 2 carrots ⓘ
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 medium red pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb medium shrimp ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons torn fresh basil ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons torn Italian parsley ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut carrots into 2-inch thin strips.
- Cut zucchini and red pepper into thin strips.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet; cook and stir garlic and lemon peel about 30 seconds.
- Add vegetables and shrimp to the skillet.
- Stir over medium heat until shrimp turn pink, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in torn fresh basil and Italian parsley.
- Spoon over cooked pasta and toss well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the olive oil with vegetable broth. If you prefer a different protein, chicken or scallops can be used instead of shrimp. Fresh vegetables can be swapped based on seasonal availability; asparagus or cherry tomatoes work well too. For added flavor, consider a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp. Pairing this dish with a side of garlic bread enhances the meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Scampi Primavera with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness. A light side salad with a vinaigrette complements the dish nicely. This recipe pairs beautifully with Elfo'S Spaghetti for a combined seafood feast. For drinks, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lemony sparkling water works perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scampi Primavera contains roughly 294 calories, with 14g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1418mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a quick thaw. Cook them until they turn pink, just like fresh shrimp, for the best results.
What can I substitute for the pasta?
If you want to avoid traditional pasta, consider using spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a gluten-free or lower-carb option. Quinoa or whole grain pasta can also be good alternatives, providing more fiber and nutrients while still delivering on the dish's overall flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Scampi Primavera, you can include red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic in the oil. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your taste. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a side of spicy marinara sauce for those who enjoy a kick in their seafood recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).