This Weight Watchers Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is a delicious, indulgent yet lightened-up version of a classic Tuscan-inspired dish. Featuring succulent shrimp, a creamy and savory sauce, and a flavorful combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, it’s a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor but low in calories and points. Whether you’re following the Weight Watchers plan or just looking for a healthier pasta dish, this creamy shrimp pasta will satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your diet.
The secret to making this dish creamy without the heavy cream is using fat-free Greek yogurt or light cream cheese to create a rich sauce that’s lower in calories and fat but still full of flavor. The addition of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach infuses the dish with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, while the shrimp adds a protein-packed punch. The dish is finished off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that cheesy, creamy finish you love. Best of all, you can make it in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
To keep the dish lower in carbs, you can use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta, but feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. The shrimp adds a deliciously light, protein-packed base that balances the creaminess of the sauce. This dish is perfect for those who are craving something decadent yet still want to stay within their points for the day.
Weight Watchers Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz uncooked pasta (whole wheat, zucchini noodles, or regular pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using zucchini noodles, sauté them in a pan for 2-3 minutes until tender but not overcooked.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add the Creamy Base:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt (or light cream cheese) and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the Shrimp and Pasta:
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to combine. If using regular pasta, add it directly to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. If using zucchini noodles, gently toss them in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
- Enjoy:
- Serve this creamy Tuscan shrimp pasta immediately and enjoy a lightened-up version of a rich, comforting dish!
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Total Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Net Carbs: 25g
- Sugar: 4g
- WW SmartPoints: 7 (per serving, for those following Weight Watchers)
This Weight Watchers Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. With lean shrimp, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious, low-fat creamy sauce, it feels indulgent but is much lighter than the traditional version. The recipe is customizable to your dietary preferences, and you can use your favorite pasta or low-carb alternatives. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a rich, satisfying meal without the extra calories and points—perfect for anyone trying to eat healthy and still enjoy delicious food.
