Creamy Low-Carb Tuscan Shrimp

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Creamy Low-Carb Tuscan Shrimp

📖 Description

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a quick, one-pan dish inspired by Italian flavors. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a garlic Parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s comforting, flavorful, and naturally low in carbs — perfect on its own or served over low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained & sliced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Optional: red pepper flakes (very small amount, for heat)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp
    Pat shrimp dry. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Cook the shrimp
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked.
    Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce
    In the same pan, add garlic and sauté for ~30 seconds until fragrant.
    Add sun-dried tomatoes and stir.
  4. Creamy base
    Pour in heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning.
    Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
  5. Add cheese & spinach
    Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
    Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  6. Finish
    Return shrimp to skillet and simmer 1–2 minutes.
    Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

📝 Notes

  • Shrimp cook fast — overcooking makes them rubbery
  • Sauce thickens more as it cools
  • Parmesan should be freshly grated, not powdered

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use medium-low heat once cream is added
  • If sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp chicken broth
  • If too thin, simmer uncovered for another minute
  • Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better texture
  • Add lemon zest (tiny amount) for brightness

🥦 Low-Carb Serving Ideas

  • Cauliflower rice
  • Zucchini noodles
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Enjoy alone as a protein-rich main

🌟 Health Benefits

  • High protein – supports muscle and growth
  • Low carb – helps stabilize energy levels
  • Healthy fats – from olive oil and cream
  • Iron & omega-3s – from shrimp
  • Vitamin A & C – from spinach

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