This Low Carb Shrimp Scampi Foil Packet Meal is quick, tasty, and full of shrimp goodness! With garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
Foil packets mean easy clean-up, which my lazy self appreciates! Just pop it on the grill or in the oven, and you’re set for a delicious dinner with just a few ingredients!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp is the star of this dish. Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen works too. Just be sure to thaw it before cooking. If you’re looking for a substitute, try chicken breast or scallops for a different protein.
Zucchini & Yellow Squash: These two veggies add a nice crunch and flavor. If you can’t find them, asparagus, bell peppers, or even broccoli will work well. I love using a mix of colorful veggies for added vibrancy!
Butter: It adds richness, but if you’re dairy-free, olive oil or coconut oil can easily replace it. They’ll still give a nice flavor while keeping it light.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish with a wonderful aroma. You can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is always better for that punch of flavor.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are convenient, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Basil and thyme can elevate the taste—and fresh herbs look gorgeous too!
How Do I Seal the Foil Packet Properly?
Sealing the foil packet correctly is crucial to keep in all the lovely flavors and steam. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by folding the edges of the foil over the food to create a packet that’s easy to seal.
- Press the edges together, ensuring there are no gaps. You want it airtight to keep all the moisture in while cooking.
- Try to leave a little space in the packet for steam to circulate, but make sure it’s sealed tight.
- If you want extra security, you can fold the edges down several times for a stronger seal.
With a good seal, you’ll get tender shrimp and perfectly cooked veggies in just minutes! Enjoy your meal without worries!
How to Make Low Carb Shrimp Scampi Foil Packet Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Foil Packet:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 2 lemons, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and healthy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Before you begin, preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, everything will cook perfectly once your foil packet is ready!
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This will add flavor to your shrimp and vegetables—yum!
3. Create the Vegetable Layer:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and lay it flat. Arrange a layer of zucchini and yellow squash slices in the center of the foil. This veggie base will keep everything moist and tasty.
4. Add the Shrimp:
Next, place the peeled and deveined shrimp right on top of the sliced veggies. This way, the shrimp will absorb all those wonderful flavors while they cook.
5. Layer on the Lemon:
Top the shrimp and vegetables with the thin lemon slices. The lemon will infuse a bright, zesty flavor into your dish.
6. Drizzle the Garlic Butter:
Now it’s time to drizzle that delicious garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp and veggies. Make sure everything gets a nice coating!
7. Add Fresh Parsley and Rosemary:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of your dish, adding brightness and color. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprig of fresh rosemary for extra flavor—I think it’s a great touch!
8. Seal the Foil Packet:
Fold the foil over the shrimp and veggies, creating a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly closed to trap in the steam for cooking. This is key for that tender result!
9. Cook the Foil Packet:
Place your sealed foil packet on the grill or in the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes. The shrimp should be opaque and cooked through, and the vegetables should be tender.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, carefully open the foil packet to avoid steam burns. Feel free to garnish with more fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavor-packed, low-carb meal!
This delightful dish is not only healthy and low in carbs but also easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before using it. You can do this by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat the shrimp dry before adding it to your foil packet for best results!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have zucchini or yellow squash, other veggies will work great! Asparagus, bell peppers, or even broccoli are excellent alternatives. Just ensure that the cooking time is similar for the vegetables you choose to keep everything evenly cooked!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Just be cautious not to overcook the shrimp!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the foil packets ahead of time! Simply assemble everything and seal the packets, then store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them on the grill or in the oven, and you’re good to go!