January 12, 2026 //
Lori Becker //
Recipes //
3 min read
Did the holidays stress you out? Then maybe it's time to cook up a heart-healthy dinner. Shrimp is packed with protein and nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, iodine, and zinc. Low and calories and fat, it's a perfect way to mix up your protein choices--and, the omega-3 fatty acids in shrimp can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Likewise, the potassium and fiber in zucchini help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. For a heart-healthy dinner to help you recover from this holiday season, check out this Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles recipe from Woman's Day Kitchen.
Ingredients:
6 oz. linguine
1 1/2 lb. peeled, deveined large shrimp
4 cloves garlic, grated
2 Tbsp. olive oil
Kosher salt and pepper
1 Tbsp. lemon zest
2 Tbsp. lemon juice (from 1 to 2 large lemons)
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter
12 oz. zucchini (about 3), spiralized on the thickest setting
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook pasta per pkg. directions. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking water, drain pasta, and return it to the pot.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss shrimp, garlic, olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Let sit at least 5 minutes.
Heat a large skillet on medium. Add shrimp mixture and cook until just barely opaque throughout, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate, leaving any oil in the skillet.
Add lemon zest and pepper flakes and cook, stirring, 30 seconds. Add wine, scraping up any browned bits, then reduce by half. Stir in lemon juice and butter, then add zucchini noodles and simmer 2 minutes.
Return shrimp to the skillet along with pasta and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if mixture seems dry. Sprinkle with parsley.
Why We Love this One…
✔️ Lean Protein Boost: Shrimp offers a high-quality source of complete protein, supporting muscle maintenance, repair and overall energy.
✔️ Low-Carb/High-Veg Swap: The zucchini noodles (“zoodles”) provide a lighter base than traditional pasta—lower in carbs and calories while adding fiber and hydration.
✔️ Heart-Healthy Fats & Antioxidants: Olive oil (and a bit of butter if used) delivers monounsaturated fats for heart and brain health, and garlic plus lemon zest/pulp add antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
✔️ Micronutrient-Rich Veggies: Zucchini and any additional veggies (like spinach, spinach leaves or herbs) provide vitamins A & C, potassium and phytonutrients supporting immunity and cellular health.
✔️ Refreshing Flavor with Nutritional Value: Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, adding vitamin C and aiding digestion, while the garlic and herbs support gut health and anti-inflammatory effects.
