Ready in: 25 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: 2 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodles recipe is a quick and healthy dish that combines vibrant flavors for a delightful meal.
Living in New York City, the buzz of the upcoming holiday season is palpable. The delightful aroma of spices wafting through my kitchen sets the mood for countless gatherings and cozy dinners. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I've been looking for wholesome yet delicious dishes that leave a lasting impression. That's where my go-to recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodles comes in-a perfect blend of vibrant flavors and health-conscious ingredients that work for any occasion.
A Perfect Holiday Dish
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Light and healthy, yet packed with flavor, leaving you satisfied but not heavy.
- A versatile dish that can be customized with additional vegetables or proteins.
- Fresh ingredients elevate the taste, making every bite a delight.
- Perfect for holiday feasts or any dinner occasion, impressing family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
Zucchini Noodles
- 3 medium-sized zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
Shrimp
- 1 pound of raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp
Flavor Enhancers
- 4 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodles (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and healthy dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Start by spiralizing your fresh zucchinis until they resemble noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips, aiming for a light and slightly crunchy texture that will contrast perfectly with the shrimp.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it become fragrant for about 30 seconds. Toss in the shrimp once the garlic begins to sizzle. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This combination of ingredients will infuse the dish with a bright, citrusy aroma, elevating the overall flavor.
Step 4: Toss in the Zucchini Noodles
Gently add the spiralized zucchini noodles into the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender but still maintain a pleasant al dente texture.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Before removing the skillet from the heat, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavors!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Too Much Moisture: Zucchini noodles can release water, making the dish watery. After spiralizing, pat them slightly dry if you want to maintain firmness.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Avoid using bottled lemon juice; always go for fresh lemons for the best flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Customize It: Try adding a handful of cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Meal Prep: Feel free to prep zucchini noodles in advance. Just store them in a sealed container and use within a day or two to retain their crunch.
- Pasta Lovers: If you'd like, pair this recipe with your favorite pasta for an extra hearty dish.
Variations
- Substitute shrimp with scallops or salmon for a different protein option.
- Use other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful twist.
- Replace zucchini noodles with spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.
How to Serve
- Serve in bowls topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prep zucchini noodles in advance and store in a sealed container.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove to maintain shrimp tenderness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as zucchini noodles may become soggy upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings. It tastes incredible while providing a light and energizing meal-a great balance during the holiday feast season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 25g protein · 12g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by spiralizing your fresh zucchinis until they resemble noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips, aiming for a light and slightly crunchy texture that will contrast perfectly with the shrimp.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it become fragrant for about 30 seconds. Toss in the shrimp once the garlic begins to sizzle. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This combination of ingredients will infuse the dish with a bright, citrusy aroma, elevating the overall flavor.
- Gently add the spiralized zucchini noodles into the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender but still maintain a pleasant al dente texture.
- Before removing the skillet from the heat, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavors!
Notes
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, such as stock or sauces, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the zucchini noodles in advance and store them in a sealed container. However, it's recommended to cook the shrimp and combine the dish right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
