Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
If you’re craving a light yet indulgent dinner that dazzles with flavor and freshness, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender shrimp bathed in rich garlic butter pairs beautifully with the crisp, vibrant zucchini noodles making every bite a harmonious blend of juicy seafood and garden-fresh veggies. This dish is a low-carb dream and ready in just about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe plays a crucial role in building its irresistible flavor profile, texture, and color. These simple essentials come together quickly to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh shrimp provide a tender, juicy protein base with a subtle sweetness that soaks up the garlic butter beautifully.
- 4 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles): Zucchini noodles offer a light, crisp texture and vibrant green color, keeping this meal fresh and low-carb.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter enriches the dish with luxurious creaminess and brings out the shrimp’s natural flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic delivers warm, aromatic depth that makes the shrimp truly shine.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat adds complexity without overpowering the main ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lemon juice cuts through the richness, infusing the dish with bright, zesty notes.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan introduces a savory, slightly nutty flavor that enhances both the shrimp and zucchini noodles.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the elements perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh herbal finish and a pop of vibrant color.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels; this ensures they’ll sear nicely without steaming. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness and create a flavorful crust when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque—this quick cooking locks in juiciness. Remove the shrimp and set aside; this keeps them perfectly tender while you prepare the veggies.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing just about 30 seconds until the aroma fills your kitchen. This step releases the garlic’s pungent flavor without burning it, which can turn bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Zucchini Noodles
Add your spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and gently toss them with the garlic butter. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes—remember, you want them tender but still with a slight crunch to avoid any sogginess, which keeps the dish light and fresh.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon, Cheese, and Shrimp
Stir in the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese to the zucchini noodles, letting the cheese melt slightly into the warm noodles. Return the shrimp back to the skillet, tossing everything delicately to combine and heat through for about a minute. The flavors marry beautifully here, creating a dazzling final dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over your shrimp and zucchini noodles for a gorgeous finishing touch that adds freshness and color to your plate. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its most vibrant.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but feel free to experiment with some microgreens or a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese. A twist of lemon zest or a few crushed red pepper flakes on top will give your presentation an extra pop of gourmet flair.
Side Dishes
This recipe is quite filling on its own, yet it pairs nicely with a simple mixed green salad or roasted asparagus if you want to stretch your meal further. A warm crusty bread also complements the garlicky butter sauce perfectly, soaking up the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe in individual shallow bowls for a cozy, intimate feel. Alternatively, plate the dish on large flat plates and garnish with edible flowers or lemon wedges for an elegant dinner party presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp and zucchini noodles keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that zucchini noodles may release some water, so store them separately if possible or gently drain excess moisture before reheating.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as zucchini noodles tend to become mushy after freezing and thawing. If you want to freeze, consider freezing cooked shrimp separately and spiralizing fresh zucchini when you’re ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a small knob of butter or a splash of olive oil can help refresh the sauce. Microwaving is fine but do so in short intervals to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to ensure they sear properly without steaming in the pan. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
How do I prevent zucchini noodles from becoming watery?
Cooking zucchini noodles quickly over medium heat and avoiding overcooking is key. You can also lightly salt them before cooking and let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid with a paper towel to keep them from releasing too much moisture.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas add color and texture beautifully. Add them during the zucchini cooking step so they soften just right.
Is this dish suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Definitely. The zucchini noodles replace traditional pasta, dramatically reducing the carbs, while shrimp and butter provide healthy fats and protein, making it perfect for keto or low-carb eating plans.
What can I substitute for Parmesan if I’m lactose intolerant?
Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s dairy-free, or omit entirely and boost flavor with extra garlic and a squeeze of lemon zest for brightness.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and fresh, perfect for any occasion. Its quick prep, bursting flavors, and healthful ingredients make it a cherished go-to in my kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles recipe offers a quick, delicious, and low-carb meal featuring tender shrimp sautéed in buttery garlic sauce served over fresh, lightly cooked zucchini noodles. Perfect for a healthy dinner that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients, this dish is both keto-friendly and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings and Garnish
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté garlic and spices: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Cook the zucchini noodles: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss gently, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess and maintain a slight crunch.
- Add lemon and cheese: Stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese to the zucchini noodles, mixing well to combine the fresh tang and creamy texture.
- Combine shrimp and zucchini noodles: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles and toss everything together. Cook for another minute until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added richness, drizzle a little extra melted butter over the dish before serving.
- Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles to avoid them becoming watery or mushy.
- You can omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish.
- This recipe is ideal for keto and low-carb diets due to its high protein and low carbohydrate content.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
