Shrimp Piccata with Fettuccine

Low-Carb Shrimp Piccata with It’s Skinny

Whether it’s the pretty pink color of the shrimp or the creamy, luxurious pasta, this low-carb shrimp piccata gives off romantic vibes. It’s a perfect dish for date night (or treat yourself to a solo indulgence).

You can "indulge" without stress or guilt with It's Skinny. This dish is low-carb and keto-friendly, but it doesn't feel like deprivation! With plenty of yummy cheese and bright, fresh lemon, this is one to charm your date and seduce your taste buds.

What is Piccata Anyway?

You've probably heard of veal piccata or chicken piccata. Even if you haven't tried it, you've likely seen it on many Italian restaurant menus. It's a popular dish with plenty of flavor.

The term piccata means "pound flat" in Italian. Now, in this dish, we don't actually flatten the shrimp (these babies cook up quickly as-is), but we still use the classic piccata flavors of lemon, basil, and capers.

As with most classic versions of piccata, we do add a very light flour coating to the shrimp and then sauté them in that bright, salty, lemony sauce that everyone adores. This healthy shrimp recipe is a perfect example of simple ingredients coming together for something delicious. One of the secrets to the sauce is the use of briny capers.

What are capers? If you haven't tried these tiny, pickled flower buds before, prepare for a burst of flavor. The buds of the Capparis spinosa plant (AKA the caper bush) are tangy, salty, and totally unique. They have a bold taste with a hint of lemony acidity, making them the perfect complement for this dish.

Capers are very low in calories, but they have some antioxidant properties and contain phytonutrients and vitamins, especially vitamin K. But the main draw of capers is to enhance the flavors of your dish. They’re strong, so just a few go a long way.

Although they might not be as common in American cuisine, you'll find capers in tarter sauce and many Italian dishes. They've actually been around since ancient times when they were used as medicine as well as a flavorful addition to food.

You’ll find jars of capers in the Italian section of the grocery store, near olives and other similar garnishes. You may prefer to rinse them before you use them. Rinsing removes the extra brine and saltiness to tone down the flavor. You can store capers in your fridge, where, like many pickled foods, they will last a long time.

It’s Skinny Fettuccine Lightens Up Piccata

Piccata is generally a bright dish served over a generous portion of pasta. But if you're following keto, cutting carbs, or on a low-calorie diet, you probably feel like you have to hit the pause button on pasta dishes.

With It's Skinny you can enjoy all your favorites once again. There's no reason to take pasta off the menu when It's Skinny has only 9 calories and zero net carbs per pack. What's more, it's easier to work with than traditional noodles. The shelf-stable packs heat up in 3-4 minutes—no waiting for water to boil or trying to get the perfect al dente texture.

If you're looking for low-carb, keto-friendly dinner options, It's Skinny has you covered. Choose from four great styles:

• Fettuccine
• Spaghetti
• Angel Hair
• Rice Shape

All four styles come in Organic options as well. If you can't decide which to try, pick them all with a variety pack! You'll have a blast exploring the endless "pastabilities" with this keto-friendly ingredient.

Unlike other low carb rice alternatives and pasta substitutes, It’s Skinny doesn’t have a funky taste. It won’t water down your dishes like zoodles, spaghetti squash, or cauli-rice. In fact, it will be hard to believe that delicious, filling It’s Skinny has zero net carbs. It’s gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for any lifestyle. 

So how did we do it? How did we make such fantastic pasta minus the carbohydrates? It's all thanks to a special ingredient called Konjac. The Konjac plant is well known globally but not as popular (yet) in the West. This fibrous root is full of satisfying glucomannan fiber, keeping your blood sugar levels steady and your tummy full and happy.

If you’re searching for an answer to carb cravings, this is it! In fact, the stats on It’s Skinny are so good that you can enjoy it on an Intermittent Fasting plan without even breaking your fast! How’s that for mind-blowing?!

If you’re ready to start swapping in It’s Skinny to your favorite meals, explore our recipe database for some great ideas. We’ll help you remake your favorites from crave-tastic noodle bowls to delicious desserts!

Make Shrimp Piccata Your Way

Shrimp piccata is a unique take on a classic Italian dish. But if you’re looking for more ways to customize and change up this amazing pasta, we’ve got you! We’re always fans of making dishes your own way. Play with the ingredients and switch it up to suit your taste buds. Here are a few ways to riff on Shrimp Piccata.

Can I swap out the shrimp for other protein?

If you aren’t a fan of shrimp (or can’t find shrimp at the market), no worries. You can easily make this dish with other proteins. Chicken is the classic choice for piccata—pound chicken breasts or thighs until flat, and then prepare the chicken version as instructed.

Veal is the other classic protein partner for piccata. This dish is also great with turkey or pork. If you want to stay in the seafood vibe, try this with salmon, tuna, or another type of fish. The lemons and capers go well with almost any protein you like!

Can I skip the capers?

Capers are one of those surprisingly versatile ingredients. Once you've tried them, you'll likely become a fan and find many ways to add them to your favorite dishes. That said, if you can't find capers or aren't a fan of the pickled flower buds, there are some easy swaps.

Green olives are the closest flavor profile to capers. Chop them finely and add them in just as you would the capers. Almonds are another option (or pinenuts). Pickles have a similar tang and brightness. Feta cheese and sundried tomatoes also pack a salty, flavorful punch that can work well.

What other vegetables could I add to Shrimp Piccata?  

One of the best ways to beat keto cravings (or any diet cravings) is to increase your intake of vegetables. There are many options you could add to this easy shrimp piccata recipe to make it even more satisfying and delicious. Spinach, red peppers, or leeks would all pair well with this dish.

You can change the basil with any of your favorite herbs. Thyme, fresh parsley, and oregano are all excellent options. While this dish has lots of flavor, you may want some heat with red pepper flakes. Garlic salt or fresh garlic are also lovely additions. No matter how you make it, shrimp piccata is a delicious meal!

Low-Carb Shrimp Piccata with Fettuccine Recipe

Are you ready to make this yummy date night pasta dish? This low-carb shrimp piccata will win over any heart (including your own). Succulent shrimp in a lemon butter sauce is ready in about ten minutes, making it a delicious low-carb lunch or quick dinner. Treat yourself to an easy recipe that feels extra special! With It's Skinny, it's guilt-free!