Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter Shrimp
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.
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