Print

Flavorful Zesty Shrimp Scampi Dinner Bowl Recipe for Easy Spicy Cauliflower Meal

zesty shrimp scampi dinner bowl - featured image

A quick and easy shrimp scampi dinner bowl featuring tender shrimp in a garlicky lemon butter sauce paired with spicy roasted cauliflower. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with bold, fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen shrimp)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: cooked pasta or cauliflower rice (for serving base)
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  2. Spread cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and slightly crispy on edges.
  3. While cauliflower roasts, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once butter melts and foams, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and opaque, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Pour in white wine or chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. If using pasta, prepare according to package instructions while shrimp and cauliflower cook.
  8. Assemble bowl by placing pasta or cauliflower rice in a bowl, topping with spicy roasted cauliflower, then shrimp scampi.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. Squeeze extra fresh lemon over the bowl before serving.

Notes

Dry shrimp thoroughly before cooking to get a good sear. Spread cauliflower in a single layer to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Use lemon zest for fresh brightness. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, spicy cauliflower, dinner bowl, easy dinner, weeknight meal, seafood, garlic butter shrimp, lemon zest, gluten-free, dairy-free option