Low Carb Shrimp Scampi & Salad

I am trying very hard to stick to my diet, and decided to have a low-carb, mostly low-calorie dinner of shrimp scampi and a salad. I saw a wonderful creamy Cajun shrimp recipe, but I know I would eat too much of the sauce, so I opted for this choice.

Starting with a vinaigrette for the salad, I gathered some lemon zest before juicing it. Luckily, I put the zest in a different container before getting the juice…

Because I had a wee mishap with the juice! It’s okay, I had more than one lemon.

After putting the lemon juice, zest, and olive oil in a container, I got some honey and fresh thyme.

Come on. Those layers are just gorgeous!

I had some thinly sliced shallots, and added some of those to the mix as well. I saved the sliced radishes for the salad later.

I have to say, this tool is possibly my favorite kitchen tool. I can emulsify, mix, and blend with this thing! THIS is basically what I have, and I can’t imagine not having it now!

Oh my goodness, look at that creamy vinaigrette! The recipe called for two tablespoons of honey, and it was a bit sweet for me. Next time I’ll just use one tablespoon. Other than that, it was wonderful!

I put this goodness in a jar and into the refrigerator.

Spiralizing the zucchini is easy with the right tool. I wasn’t paying attention and started making the wrong kind, but then switched to the right attachment. I’m not as fond of this spiralizer but have ordered another kind. If it’s good, I’m sure I’ll let you know.

A bit of butter, olive oil, and garlic… and then when that was hot and fragrant, some red pepper flakes and sauvignon blanc. I let that simmer and cook down a little before adding the shrimp and parsley.

The shrimp and zoodles was quite good! I was very happy with how it all turned out. I could have cooked the zoodles less (or not at all), but I don’t mind overcooking my zucchini.

As for the salad, I used tender butter lettuce with the thinly sliced radishes and shallots. I even had croutons as a splurge! The lemon thyme dressing was amazing. I can’t wait to make the less-sweet version!