Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles

Short Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles is a light, flavorful, and low-carbohydrate dish that combines succulent shrimp with spiralized zucchini noodles, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick and healthy meal is perfect for those seeking a satisfying dinner without the heaviness of traditional pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Zucchini noodles provide a nutritious alternative to pasta, reducing carbohydrate intake.

Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Versatile: Easily adaptable with additional vegetables or proteins to suit personal preferences.

Minimal Cleanup: Prepared in a single pan, simplifying the cooking process and cleanup.

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles):
2 medium zucchinis, spiralized

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For Garnish (Optional):
Grated Parmesan cheese

Lemon wedges

Directions
Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:

Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.

Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the zoodles, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until just tender.

Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, combining well.

Combine and Serve:

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce.

Add the sautéed zoodles back into the pan, mixing gently to combine.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing
Servings: 2–3

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations
Add Vegetables: Incorporate cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Use Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu to suit dietary preferences.

Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the garlic butter sauce for a richer texture.

Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or dill in place of parsley for different flavor profiles.

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

Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the shrimp and make the zoodles soggy.

Freezing: Not recommended, as zucchini noodles may become mushy upon thawing.
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FAQs
Can I use pre-spiralized zucchini noodles?
Yes, pre-spiralized zucchini noodles are convenient and can be used in this recipe. Ensure they are fresh and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

How do I prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming soggy?
Avoid overcooking the zoodles; sauté them for just 1–2 minutes until tender-crisp. Additionally, patting them dry before cooking helps reduce moisture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan butter or additional olive oil. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What size shrimp should I use?
Medium to large shrimp (approximately 31–40 count per pound) work well for this recipe, providing a satisfying bite and quick cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to maintain optimal texture.

Can I add pasta instead of zucchini noodles?
Yes, if not following a low-carb diet, you can substitute the zoodles with cooked pasta of your choice. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
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How can I make the dish more filling?
Add additional protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, or serve with a side of crusty bread to make the meal more substantial.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and texture.

What can I use if I don’t have a spiralizer?
A julienne peeler or mandoline slicer can be used to create thin zucchini strips as an alternative to spiralized noodles.

How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve texture and flavor.

Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles is a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Its quick preparation and versatility make it an excellent choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or simply seeking a lighter meal option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste.

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