17 Delicious Alternatives to Serve with Shrimp Scampi (No Pasta Required!)

Look, we all love a classic shrimp scampi with pasta, but sometimes ya just wanna switch things up! I’ve tested tons of side dishes to pair with this garlicky, buttery shrimp dish, and I’m super excited to share my favorite alternatives that’ll make your dinner extra special.

Why Consider Alternatives to Pasta?

Before we dive into the alternatives, here’s why you might wanna skip the pasta:

• Lower carb options available
• More nutritious choices
• Variety in texture and flavor
• Dietary restrictions
• Just because you’re bored with pasta!

Best Bread Options

1. Garlic Bread

Ya can’t go wrong with garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up that amazing scampi sauce. I love making mine with:

• Fresh French baguette
• Lots of butter
• Minced garlic
• Fresh parsley
• A sprinkle of Parmesan

2. Crusty No-Knead Bread

This is super easy to make and feels fancy! The holes in the bread are perfect for catching all that yummy sauce.

3. Focaccia

This Italian flatbread is amazing with shrimp scampi. Top it with:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh herbs
• Sea salt
• Olive oil

Veggie-Based Alternatives

4. Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)

These are my go-to when I’m trying to eat healthier! They’re

• Low-carb
• Fresh tasting
• Quick to prepare
• Great sauce absorbers

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These little guys get all crispy and caramelized when roasted. Trust me, even brussels sprouts haters might change their mind!

6. Cauliflower Options

Two ways to go here:

• Cauliflower rice (super low-carb!)
• Roasted cauliflower mash (creamy and comforting)

Grain Alternatives

7. Quinoa

This protein-packed grain is awesome with scampi because

• Nutty flavor
• Great texture
• Healthy choice
• Soaks up sauce perfectly

8. Risotto

Ok. I know this is technically rice but it’s SO good with scampi! Make it with

• Arborio rice
• White wine
• Parmesan
• Chicken or veggie stock

Fresh and Light Options

9. Caprese Salad

This simple Italian salad is perfect! You’ll need:

• Fresh mozzarella
• Ripe tomatoes
• Basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze

10. Arugula Salad

The peppery taste of arugula works amazing with the garlic and butter in scampi. Add:

• Pine nuts
• Shaved Parmesan
• Lemon vinaigrette

Hearty Vegetable Sides

11. Roasted Red Potatoes

These are always a crowd-pleaser! Season with:

• Olive oil
• Rosemary
• Garlic
• Sea salt

12. Green Beans

I love making these crispy and garlicky. They’re:

• Quick to cook
• Nutritious
• Great texture contrast
• Budget-friendly

Luxurious Add-Ons

13. Lobster Tails

Wanna make it extra fancy? Add a lobster tail! It’s:

• Super impressive
• Delicious combo
• Perfect for special occasions

Tips for Pairing

When choosing your side dish, consider:

1. Texture contrast
2. Sauce compatibility
3. Flavor balance
4. Prep time coordination
5. Dietary needs

My Personal Fave Combo

If I’m having people over, I usually serve shrimp scampi with:

• Crusty garlic bread
• Arugula salad
• Roasted Brussels sprouts

This combo gives ya different textures and flavors, plus it looks really pretty on the table!

Quick Note About the Shrimp

Before we wrap up, remember that perfectly cooked shrimp should be:

• Pink and opaque
• Slightly curved (not tight C-shape)
• Cooked just until done (don’t overcook!)

There ya have it! These alternatives will definitely jazz up your next shrimp scampi dinner. Which one are you gonna try first? I’d love to hear how it turns out!

Remember, cooking should be fun and these are just suggestions – feel free to mix and match based on what you and your family love. Happy cooking!

Shrimp scampi, a classic dish of sauteed shrimp in a garlic, white wine, and lemon sauce, pairs well with a variety of sides. Pasta, particularly long, thin shapes like linguine, spaghetti, angel hair, or capellini, is a popular choice to soak up the flavorful sauce.