Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? Zucchini noodles with garlic butter shrimp is a perfect choice! This dish is not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor, making it ideal for those following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet. The combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and fresh zucchini noodles creates a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Low-Carb – Zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) are a fantastic alternative to pasta, offering a nutrient-dense, lower-calorie option.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor – Garlic, butter, and shrimp create an irresistible combination that’s both rich and savory.
Versatile – You can customize this recipe with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter Shrimp

Kev

This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles is a light, flavorful, and low-carb meal. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over tender zucchini noodles for a delicious and healthy alternative to pasta.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 3

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Noodles:

3 medium zucchinis spiralized
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or buy pre-spiralized zucchini from the store.
Place the zoodles on a paper towel and sprinkle with a bit of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with another paper towel.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp

In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), then sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until fully cooked.
Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Add the zucchini noodles back into the skillet and toss them gently with the garlic butter shrimp.
Let everything warm together for about a minute to absorb the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Avoid watery noodles – Salting the zucchini and patting it dry helps remove excess moisture.

Cook quickly – Overcooked zoodles become mushy. A quick sauté is all they need.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic, butter, and lemon juice enhance the flavors significantly.

Variations and Substitutions

Make it spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.

Add veggies – Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for more nutrients and color.

Try different proteins – Swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or salmon for variety.

Dairy-free option – Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter, dairy-free version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~320

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Fat: 18g

Final Thoughts

Zucchini noodles with garlic butter shrimp is a dish that combines elegance with simplicity. It’s light, healthy, and full of bold flavors, making it a go-to meal for those who want something quick yet delicious. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a fresh and flavorful dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your homemade zoodles and shrimp, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!