Short Description:
This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Zoodles recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that combines succulent shrimp with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb, gluten-free option. Tossed in a delicious garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon, this dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a light weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this Garlic Shrimp Zoodles recipe is exactly what you need. The shrimp is tender and perfectly seasoned, while the zoodles provide a light, fresh alternative to pasta. The garlic butter sauce adds richness without being too heavy, and the squeeze of lemon brightens the entire dish. Best of all, this meal comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect option when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

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

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

3. Add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.

4. Add the butter and stir until melted. Once the butter has melted, add the zoodles to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the zoodles are tender but still slightly crisp.

5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and toss again.

6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, healthy meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Use different seafood: You can substitute the shrimp with other seafood such as scallops or even chicken breast for a variation.

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your food with more heat.

• Use pesto: For a different twist, toss the zoodles and shrimp with pesto instead of the garlic butter sauce.

• Add cheese: Top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for a cheesy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought zoodles?

Yes, you can use pre-packaged zoodles or spiralized zucchini from the store for a quicker option.

2. Can I make this dish without shrimp?

Absolutely! You can use other protein sources like chicken breast, tofu, or even leave it vegetarian by adding more vegetables to the zoodles.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

4. What if I don’t have a spiralizer?

If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or simply slice the zucchini thinly into ribbons or rounds.

5. Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, if you prefer a different kind of noodle, you can swap the zoodles for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.

6. How do I make the zoodles less watery?

To avoid watery zoodles, after spiralizing, place them in a colander and sprinkle with a little salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat them dry before cooking.

7. Can I add more garlic to the recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add extra cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the shrimp and zoodles in advance, but it’s best to cook the zoodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

9. Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian version.

10. Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze zoodles as they can become soggy once thawed. However, you can freeze the shrimp and garlic butter sauce separately and combine them with fresh zoodles when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Zoodles recipe is the perfect quick and healthy meal for busy days when you want something flavorful without spending much time in the kitchen. The garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the shrimp and zoodles, and the whole dish comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a light, delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. It’s a satisfying dish that’s both fresh and indulgent in the best way!

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