Certainly! Here’s a Weight Watchers-friendly Shrimp Tomato Spinach Pasta recipe, reworked with the points for various plans and a detailed, extended recipe. This version takes into account healthy ingredients while keeping the recipe flavorful and low in SmartPoints.

Weight Watchers Shrimp, Tomato, and Spinach Pasta

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (4 SmartPoints)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (0 SmartPoints)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (0 SmartPoints)
  • 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles) (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup fat-free chicken broth (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup light cream cheese (3 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (3 SmartPoints)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) (0 SmartPoints)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (0 SmartPoints)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (0 SmartPoints)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor) (1 SmartPoint)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)

  1. Spiralize the zucchini: Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to turn the zucchinis into “noodles” or zoodles. Alternatively, you can slice them thinly if you don’t have a spiralizer. For a firmer texture, sprinkle the zucchini noodles with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat them dry using a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper as they cook.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Cook garlic and tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
  2. Add spinach and broth: Toss in the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to wilt. Add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the skillet to deglaze the pan and create a bit of sauce.
  3. Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the light cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
  4. Optional – Add white wine: If using, pour in the dry white wine and allow it to cook for about 1-2 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the liquid reduce slightly. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add shrimp back in: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine with the creamy sauce. Let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the zucchini noodles: Gently stir in the zucchini noodles (zoodles) or any low-carb pasta alternative you’ve chosen. Toss the zoodles with the shrimp and creamy sauce to coat them thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  1. Season to taste: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness and balance the creamy sauce.
  2. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately while it’s still hot.

Weight Watchers SmartPoints Breakdown (per serving)

  • Blue Plan: 6 SmartPoints per serving
  • Green Plan: 6 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 5 SmartPoints per serving

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 4)

  • Calories: 276 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Net Carbs: 8g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
  • Sodium: 440mg
  • Potassium: 750mg
  • Vitamin A: 35% DV
  • Vitamin C: 25% DV
  • Calcium: 15% DV
  • Iron: 20% DV

Recipe Tips:

  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): To keep the zucchini noodles from getting soggy, avoid overcooking them. If you want them to retain some bite, simply toss them in the skillet with the sauce at the very end and allow them to warm through. You can also briefly sauté the zoodles in the skillet for 1-2 minutes before combining them with the shrimp.
  • Substitute for Zoodles: If you don’t have a spiralizer or prefer a different pasta alternative, you can use Shirataki noodles (very low in carbs) or spaghetti squash for a similar texture and even fewer carbs.
  • Cream Cheese Variations: If you’d like a dairy-free version, swap the light cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese or coconut cream, though this will slightly change the flavor profile.
  • For Extra Flavor: You can also add a tablespoon of chopped sun-dried tomatoes or capers for an extra burst of flavor that complements the shrimp and creamy sauce.
  • Adjust the Creaminess: If you like a thicker, creamier sauce, you can add extra cream cheese or use a tablespoon of heavy cream, though this will increase the SmartPoints slightly.

This Weight Watchers Shrimp, Tomato, and Spinach Pasta is a balanced, flavorful, and filling meal that works within Weight Watchers’ SmartPoints system. The use of fresh, healthy ingredients like shrimp, zucchini, spinach, and tomatoes keeps the dish light while still satisfying your pasta cravings. With the added creamy texture and zesty lemon, it’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a low-point meal without compromising on taste.

Enjoy!