Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles Quick and Easy Meal

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If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner, try Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles! This dish combines juicy shrimp with fresh zucchini noodles for a healthy twist. I’ll show you how to make this easy meal in just a few steps. Plus, you’ll get tips to make it perfect every time! Let’s dive in and make dinner fun and delicious!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Healthy: This dish is a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor, thanks to the fresh zucchini and succulent shrimp.
  2. Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
  3. Loaded with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a deliciously rich sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp and zoodles.
  4. Customizable: This recipe is highly adaptable; you can easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Every great meal starts with the right ingredients. For Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles, you need fresh, high-quality items. Zucchini makes a perfect base. It’s light and full of water.

I usually spiralize two medium zucchinis. This gives you a nice amount of zoodles. You can find a spiralizer at most kitchen stores. If you don’t have one, a vegetable peeler can work, but it may take longer.

Next, you need shrimp. One pound is enough for two servings. Make sure the shrimp is raw, peeled, and deveined. This saves time and keeps the dish clean.

Garlic is key to flavor. Four cloves of minced garlic will add a nice kick. You’ll also need unsalted butter for richness and olive oil for cooking.

Don’t forget the seasonings! The juice of one lemon adds brightness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes.

For the final touch, chop some fresh parsley. It adds color and a fresh taste. This simple list makes a dish that feels fancy yet is so easy to whip up!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Zucchini

  • Start by spiralizing the zucchinis. Use a spiralizer to create long, thin noodles. This makes zoodles fun and easy to eat.
  • If you want, sprinkle the zoodles with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes. This step helps to draw out moisture. It makes the zoodles less watery.

Cooking the Garlic and Shrimp

  • Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
  • Add 1 pound of raw shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Combining Zoodles and Garlic Butter Sauce

  • In the same skillet, lower the heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt.
  • After the butter melts, stir in the juice of 1 lemon. This adds a bright flavor.
  • Toss the zoodles into the skillet. Mix gently in the garlic butter sauce for about 2-3 minutes. Cook until they are just tender.
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Mix everything together for an extra 1-2 minutes to warm it through.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Zoodles

To keep zoodles from getting soggy, sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes, then pat them dry. This step helps pull out extra moisture. You can also try baking or sautéing zoodles briefly before adding them to the dish.

If you want to skip spiralizing, you can slice zucchini into thin strips. This method creates a different texture but works just as well. You can also use a vegetable peeler to make wider noodles.

Enhancing Flavor

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Add more lemon juice for a brighter kick. If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also add depth.

For a twist, add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. These extra ingredients can boost color and flavor. You can even toss in some spinach for added nutrients.

Cooking Tips

Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque. This ensures they stay tender and juicy. If you overcook shrimp, they can get tough.

Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic. Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too fast. Always watch your skillet closely while cooking.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Zoodles: Zoodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness. Aim for a slight crunch for the best texture.
  3. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. You can also add more lemon juice for extra brightness.
  4. Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Don’t skimp on the garnish to enhance both presentation and flavor.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken breast works well. Just cut it into small pieces. Cook it until golden brown. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm. Cut it into cubes and sauté until crispy. This gives you a great texture and flavor.

You can also try other seafood options. Scallops or lobster can be fun twists. They cook quickly and add a fancy touch. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.

Vegetable Modifications

Zoodles are great, but you can mix it up! Try spiralized carrots or sweet potatoes for a different taste. They add color and sweetness. You can also use a mix of vegetables for a hearty dish. Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli enhance the meal and pack in nutrients.

Adding more veggies can boost flavor and fiber. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or peas. They add a pop of color and taste.

Cuisine Fusion

Want to change the flavor profile? Try Asian or Mediterranean twists. For Asian flair, add soy sauce or sesame oil. A sprinkle of sesame seeds brings extra crunch.

For a Mediterranean touch, use oregano or thyme. Feta cheese can add creaminess. Fresh basil or dill also enhances the dish. Use different herbs and spices to make it your own!

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

To keep Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles fresh, cool them down quickly. After cooking, let the dish sit for 30 minutes. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out. I recommend using glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These keep flavors intact.

Freezing Guidelines

Yes, you can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles. However, the zoodles may become softer when thawed. To freeze, let the dish cool. Then, put it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Storage Duration

Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for a sour smell or a change in color. If it smells off or looks slimy, it’s best to throw it away. Following these tips helps ensure your meal stays fresh and tasty.

FAQs

What are Zoodles?

Zoodles are zucchini noodles. To make them, you use a spiralizer. Zoodles are a great low-carb swap for pasta. They are light, fresh, and full of flavor. Zoodles help add veggies to your meals. They are also low in calories and high in vitamins. You can enjoy them raw or cooked. Cooking zoodles is quick and keeps them tender. They soak up sauces well, making them a tasty base for many dishes.

Is this recipe low carb?

Yes, Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles is low in carbs. Zucchini has very few carbs, making it a smart choice. Shrimp is also low in carbohydrates and high in protein. This meal fits well into low-carb diets. It’s flavorful and filling without the carbs from pasta. You get a balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. This dish will keep you satisfied while staying low in carbs.

Can this recipe be made in advance?

You can easily make Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and zoodles separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. When you are ready to eat, just heat them together. Warm them in a skillet until hot. Add a little butter or oil if needed. This method keeps the zoodles from getting mushy. You can enjoy a quick meal any time!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles combine fresh ingredients and bold flavors. We explored key components like zucchini, shrimp, and garlic, plus handy tips for perfect zoodles. I shared storage tips and fun variations to keep your meals exciting. You can adjust this recipe to fit your taste. Whether you want a quick dinner or a tasty meal prep, these zoodles are great. Enjoy experimenting with different veggies and proteins. This dish is sure to impress while staying healthy and satisfying. Happy cookin

- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized - 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, and deveined - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped Every great meal starts with the right ingredients. For Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles, you need fresh, high-quality items. Zucchini makes a perfect base. It's light and full of water. I usually spiralize two medium zucchinis. This gives you a nice amount of zoodles. You can find a spiralizer at most kitchen stores. If you don't have one, a vegetable peeler can work, but it may take longer. Next, you need shrimp. One pound is enough for two servings. Make sure the shrimp is raw, peeled, and deveined. This saves time and keeps the dish clean. Garlic is key to flavor. Four cloves of minced garlic will add a nice kick. You’ll also need unsalted butter for richness and olive oil for cooking. Don't forget the seasonings! The juice of one lemon adds brightness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes. For the final touch, chop some fresh parsley. It adds color and a fresh taste. This simple list makes a dish that feels fancy yet is so easy to whip up! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by spiralizing the zucchinis. Use a spiralizer to create long, thin noodles. This makes zoodles fun and easy to eat. - If you want, sprinkle the zoodles with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes. This step helps to draw out moisture. It makes the zoodles less watery. - Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. - Add 1 pound of raw shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. - In the same skillet, lower the heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. - After the butter melts, stir in the juice of 1 lemon. This adds a bright flavor. - Toss the zoodles into the skillet. Mix gently in the garlic butter sauce for about 2-3 minutes. Cook until they are just tender. - Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Mix everything together for an extra 1-2 minutes to warm it through. - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. To keep zoodles from getting soggy, sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes, then pat them dry. This step helps pull out extra moisture. You can also try baking or sautéing zoodles briefly before adding them to the dish. If you want to skip spiralizing, you can slice zucchini into thin strips. This method creates a different texture but works just as well. You can also use a vegetable peeler to make wider noodles. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Add more lemon juice for a brighter kick. If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also add depth. For a twist, add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. These extra ingredients can boost color and flavor. You can even toss in some spinach for added nutrients. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque. This ensures they stay tender and juicy. If you overcook shrimp, they can get tough. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic. Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too fast. Always watch your skillet closely while cooking. Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Don't Overcook the Zoodles: Zoodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness. Aim for a slight crunch for the best texture. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. You can also add more lemon juice for extra brightness. Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Don’t skimp on the garnish to enhance both presentation and flavor. {{image_2}} You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken breast works well. Just cut it into small pieces. Cook it until golden brown. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm. Cut it into cubes and sauté until crispy. This gives you a great texture and flavor. You can also try other seafood options. Scallops or lobster can be fun twists. They cook quickly and add a fancy touch. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking. Zoodles are great, but you can mix it up! Try spiralized carrots or sweet potatoes for a different taste. They add color and sweetness. You can also use a mix of vegetables for a hearty dish. Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli enhance the meal and pack in nutrients. Adding more veggies can boost flavor and fiber. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or peas. They add a pop of color and taste. Want to change the flavor profile? Try Asian or Mediterranean twists. For Asian flair, add soy sauce or sesame oil. A sprinkle of sesame seeds brings extra crunch. For a Mediterranean touch, use oregano or thyme. Feta cheese can add creaminess. Fresh basil or dill also enhances the dish. Use different herbs and spices to make it your own! To keep Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles fresh, cool them down quickly. After cooking, let the dish sit for 30 minutes. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out. I recommend using glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These keep flavors intact. Yes, you can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles. However, the zoodles may become softer when thawed. To freeze, let the dish cool. Then, put it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for a sour smell or a change in color. If it smells off or looks slimy, it’s best to throw it away. Following these tips helps ensure your meal stays fresh and tasty. Zoodles are zucchini noodles. To make them, you use a spiralizer. Zoodles are a great low-carb swap for pasta. They are light, fresh, and full of flavor. Zoodles help add veggies to your meals. They are also low in calories and high in vitamins. You can enjoy them raw or cooked. Cooking zoodles is quick and keeps them tender. They soak up sauces well, making them a tasty base for many dishes. Yes, Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles is low in carbs. Zucchini has very few carbs, making it a smart choice. Shrimp is also low in carbohydrates and high in protein. This meal fits well into low-carb diets. It’s flavorful and filling without the carbs from pasta. You get a balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. This dish will keep you satisfied while staying low in carbs. You can easily make Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and zoodles separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. When you are ready to eat, just heat them together. Warm them in a skillet until hot. Add a little butter or oil if needed. This method keeps the zoodles from getting mushy. You can enjoy a quick meal any time! Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles combine fresh ingredients and bold flavors. We explored key components like zucchini, shrimp, and garlic, plus handy tips for perfect zoodles. I shared storage tips and fun variations to keep your meals exciting. You can adjust this recipe to fit your taste. Whether you want a quick dinner or a tasty meal prep, these zoodles are great. Enjoy experimenting with different veggies and proteins. This dish is sure to impress while staying healthy and satisfying. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles

A delicious and healthy dish featuring shrimp and spiralized zucchini in a garlic butter sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles
  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon Juice of
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preparing the zucchini: Using a spiralizer, create zoodles from the zucchinis. Optionally, lightly sprinkle with salt and let sit while you prepare the shrimp; this helps to draw out excess moisture.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Add the raw shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the butter; allow it to melt. Once melted, stir in the lemon juice.
  • Add the zoodles to the skillet, tossing gently in the garlic butter sauce for about 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and combine with the zoodles, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.
  • Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Optionally sprinkle zoodles with salt to draw out moisture.
Keyword garlic butter, healthy, low carb, shrimp, zoodles

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