Start by preparing the shrimp properly. If they’re not already cleaned, peel and devein them, then rinse under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear much better and develop more flavor. Lightly season them with salt and black pepper on both sides, keeping it simple so the Tuscan flavors can shine later.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes until they turn pink and slightly golden on one side, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. As soon as they’re fully pink and opaque, remove them from the pan and set aside—don’t overcook, or they’ll become rubbery.
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning, as garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if left too long.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then add grated parmesan cheese little by little, stirring continuously so it melts smoothly into the sauce. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly into a creamy consistency.
Add the cauliflower rice (or your chosen low-carb orzo substitute) directly into the sauce. Stir well so it’s fully coated and starts absorbing the creamy flavor. Let it cook for about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens but still has a slight bite—avoid overcooking so it doesn’t turn mushy.
Add fresh spinach to the pan and gently fold it into the mixture. It may look like a lot at first, but it will quickly wilt down within 1–2 minutes. Stir occasionally until the spinach is fully softened and evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, placing them gently over the mixture. Toss everything together carefully so the shrimp are coated in the sauce without breaking or overcooking them. Let everything heat together for about 1–2 minutes.
Give the dish a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed—add a pinch more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Once everything is creamy, well combined, and heated through, remove from heat and serve immediately while warm and rich.