This post shows you how to make zucchini noodles with garlic shrimp.
Are you looking for a unique yet flavorful dinner that’s quick to make? This Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp recipe is a must-try!
With tender shrimp, fresh zucchini noodles, and a garlic lemon sauce, this dish is filled to the brim with flavor while incorporating a tasty summer vegetable. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a tasty alternative to pasta, and can even be meal-prepped ahead of time. Whether you’re serving it on its own or part of a bigger meal or gathering, this recipe will always be a hit!
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How to cook zucchini noodles
Cooking zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) is super quick and easy – the key is to stop them from becoming soggy. We’ve got the tips to ensure you get the perfect texture every time:
- Spiralize the Zucchini – Use a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or mandoline to create long, noodle-like strands. You’ll want to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Sauté Lightly – Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for only 2–3 minutes, tossing occasionally. They should be slightly tender but still have a bite to them (similar to al dente pasta).
- Don’t Overcook – Overcooking will release too much water, making them really mushy. Always remember that if you are pairing them with a sauce, just add the zoodles right at the very end and toss only until warmed through.
- Serve Immediately – Zucchini noodles are best enjoyed fresh, as they will become mushy if left sitting around too long.
Now you’re ready to create an easy and, delicious meal with perfectly cooked zucchini noodles!
Aesther Cooking Pairs this recipe with
Ingredients
for the zucchini noodles
4 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
for the garlic shrimp:
1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt
Sauté for 2–3 minutes, tossing occasionally, until just tender. Be careful not to overcook. Transfer the noodles to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Combine Everything
Return the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss gently to combine.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and stir to coat.
Serve
Divide the zucchini noodles and shrimp among 4 plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra wedge of lemon if desired.
Tips and Tricks
🦐 Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: – Shrimp cooks fast! It only needs 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so remove it from the heat as soon as you see it turning pink and opaque.
🍋 Brighten the Flavor: – Just a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end will really enhance this dish and helps to balance the garlic and shrimp flavors.
🧂 Salt Before Cooking (Optional): – If you have the extra time, try sprinkling a little salt over your zucchini noodles – letting them sit for 10 minutes to draw out more moisture. Remember to pat dry before you start cooking.
🌿 Make It Your Own – Try adding:
- ✔️ Parmesan or feta cheese for extra richness.
- ✔️ Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- ✔️ Pesto instead of a lemon-garlic sauce for a different twist.
How to Serve
Layer the Zoodles First – Arrange the cooked zucchini noodles in a low bowl or large plate.
Top with Shrimp – Place the sautéed garlic shrimp spaced out on top of the zoodles for a beautiful presentation.
Drizzle with Sauce – If you have any – spoon extra lemon-garlic sauce from the pan over the dish for more flavor.
Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Noodles
4 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Shrimp
1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt.
3. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, tossing occasionally, until just tender. Be careful not to overcook. Transfer the noodles to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Combine Everything
1. Return the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss gently to combine.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and stir to coat.
Serve
1. Divide the zucchini noodles and shrimp among 4 plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra wedge of lemon if desired.
FAQs
Q: Can I make zucchini noodles ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can spiralize the zucchini up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container lined with a paper towel in the fridge. However, for the best texture, you’ll want to cook them fresh just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have a spiralizer?
A: No problem! You can use a julienne peeler or a mandoline slicer to create thin, noodle-like strips. If you have neither of these, you can also slice the zucchini into thin ribbons with a regular vegetable peeler.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fats: 11g
This Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp is the perfect quick yet flavorful dish for lunch or dinner. It’s a super refreshing, vibrant meal that’s easy to make and bursting with garlicky, lemony goodness!
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This post shows you how to make zucchini noodles with garlic shrimp.
