Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a great way to enjoy a light, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. It’s full of flavor, with the garlic and lemon creating a zesty, aromatic base that complements the shrimp and zucchini perfectly. The zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," offer a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake. Plus, this meal is made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• Fresh or frozen shrimp (remove shells, devein, and clean)
• Zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
• Garlic (minced or finely chopped)
• Red chili flakes (optional, adjust according to taste)
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Olive oil (suitable for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (finely chopped)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the zucchini noodles and cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the zucchini noodles, toss to combine, and cook for an additional minute.
5. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add more veggies: You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
• Spicy version: For extra heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Swap shrimp for chicken: If you prefer chicken over shrimp, you can replace the shrimp with chicken breast or thighs, seasoned and cooked the same way.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to prevent the zucchini noodles from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

2. Can I use a different type of oil?

You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I spiralize the zucchini?

Simply use a spiralizer tool to turn your zucchini into noodles. You can also buy pre-spiralized zucchini from the store.

4. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture.

5. Can I make this dish without garlic?

While garlic adds a great flavor, you can skip it if you prefer or substitute it with garlic powder.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red chili flakes, or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the pan while cooking the shrimp.

7. Can I use pasta instead of zucchini noodles?

Yes, if you're not on a low-carb or keto diet, you can use regular pasta like linguine or spaghetti.

8. How can I add more protein?

You can increase the amount of shrimp or add in some grilled chicken breast for an extra protein boost.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the shrimp and other ingredients are checked for cross-contamination.

10. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

If using pre-cooked shrimp, just add them to the pan at the end and heat them through to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a weeknight favorite. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a low-carb meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, making it a dish you can enjoy time and time again.