Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

Looking for a light and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor? This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles is your answer! It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a special dinner when you want to impress without the fuss.

Explore more zucchini-based keto meals like this lasagna.

Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly mingling with fresh, spiralized zucchini noodles. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings a taste of the coast right to your plate.

Discover another way to enjoy zucchini noodles with fresh pesto.

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

Recipe by Meal Prep ChefCourse: Meal Prep for OneCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

280

kcal

This dish features tender shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with zucchini noodles that soak up all that delicious flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, with a hint of sweetness from the shrimp and a buttery, garlicky finish that leaves you wanting more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

• 1 lemon, for squeezing juice

Directions

• Prepare the Ingredients: Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside. Peel and devein the shrimp if not prepped.
• Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
• Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove the shrimp and set aside.
• Sauté Zucchini Noodles: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the zucchini noodles. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the noodles are just tender but still have a slight bite.
• Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles with shrimp on top, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately.

Key Prep Tips

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp; pat them dry before cooking for a better sear.
2. Spiralize Zucchini Evenly: Use a spiralizer to create even, noodle-like zucchini strands for the best texture.
3. Quick Cooking: Shrimp cooks quickly—2-3 minutes per side is enough to keep them tender and juicy.
4. Avoid Overcooking Zoodles: Toss zucchini noodles in the pan briefly, just enough to warm them without becoming soggy.

Suggested Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu for variety.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Flavor Boost: Include a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan (or vegan cheese) for extra richness.
• Alternative Noodles: Use spaghetti squash, sweet potato noodles, or whole-grain pasta if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Light Meal: Serve the shrimp and zoodles as is for a low-carb, high-protein dish.
• As a Full Meal: Pair with a small side salad or garlic bread for a more filling option.
• Beverages: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced herbal tea.
• Presentation: Plate the zucchini noodles in a swirl and arrange the shrimp on top for a restaurant-quality look.