Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is a quick and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a savory garlic Parmesan sauce, making it a perfect Healthy Shrimp Skillet for any weeknight dinner. Ready in just 20 minutes, this low-carb, high-protein meal is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re craving seafood or a light, flavorful dish, Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies
I absolutely love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy yet bursting with flavor. The Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is a Healthy Shrimp Skillet that pairs tender shrimp with colorful zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is low in carbs and packed with nutrients, perfect for busy evenings or a quick, wholesome dinner. The versatility and speed make it a go-to in my kitchen.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies
Here’s what you’ll need for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies (serves 4):
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula or tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredient Tips
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp; pat dry for crisp searing.
- Veggies: Use firm zucchini and bell peppers for texture; halve tomatoes evenly for cooking.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated for optimal melt; pre-grated is fine but less intense.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin for flavor; use sparingly to keep it light.
- Parsley: Fresh for garnish; substitute with cilantro for a twist.
Directions for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies
Let’s create this vibrant Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies!
Cook the Shrimp
- I heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- I season 1 lb shrimp with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- I sauté the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, I add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil if needed, then add 1 zucchini, 1 bell pepper, and 1 cup cherry tomatoes.
- I sauté for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and lightly golden.
Combine and Add Cheese
- I return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to combine with the veggies.
- I sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring gently until the cheese melts and coats everything.
- I garnish the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 10g carbs, 25g protein, 8g fat, 2g fiber
Variations
- Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with 1 lb diced chicken or tofu for a versatile Healthy Shrimp Skillet.
- Veggie Mix: Add ½ cup mushrooms or broccoli for extra nutrition in a Healthy Shrimp Skillet.
- Spicy Boost: Increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp or add a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
- Cheese Swap: Use ¼ cup mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
- Keto Base: Serve over 1 cup cauliflower rice instead of veggies for an ultra-low-carb option.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo for a low-carb dinner spread.
- Serve with a side of quinoa or a mixed green salad for a complete Healthy Shrimp Skillet meal.
- Offer at a casual gathering with sparkling water and lime for a light, refreshing vibe.
Storage
I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. To reheat, I warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, stirring until heated through. I avoid freezing, as shrimp and veggies can become mushy when thawed, but the cooked shrimp can be frozen separately for up to 1 month, thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating with fresh veggies.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies in a colorful skillet or on plates with a parsley sprinkle for a vibrant look.
- Garnish: Add a lemon wedge or extra Parmesan for a customizable touch.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a Chardonnay, iced tea, or lemon-infused water to complement Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies.
- Temperature: Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
- Portion Size: One-quarter of the dish per person for a satisfying meal.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:
How can I make this dish spicier?
If I like it spicy, I can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, I can definitely use frozen shrimp. I just need to make sure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
What other veggies can I add to this dish?
I can experiment with different veggies based on what I have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes are great, but I can also try adding asparagus, broccoli, or spinach for variety.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?
Yes, pre-grated parmesan cheese works fine, but freshly grated parmesan will melt better and add a more intense flavor to the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, I can omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
More Dinner Recipes
- Classic Moussaka: A Hearty, Soul-Warming Treat
- Honey Garlic Salmon Air Fryer
- Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is a quick, healthy, and tasty dish that’s perfect for any busy weeknight. With its flavorful shrimp, colorful veggies, and the richness of parmesan, it’s a meal I can feel good about. Plus, it’s customizable to fit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it an easy go-to recipe in my weeknight rotation.
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and season with garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender and lightly browned.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and coat the shrimp and veggies.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best texture.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.
- Can substitute shrimp with chicken breast or tofu for different protein options.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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