There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil to stir up feelings of warmth and comfort. One evening, as I was searching for a light yet satisfying dinner option, I stumbled upon the perfect solution: One Pan Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles. This dish quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, combining tender shrimp with vibrant zucchini noodles for a fresh, low-carb meal that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time.
I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss. You get that beautiful interplay of garlic, lemon, and just a hint of spice, all while enjoying the ease of minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress without the stress, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also keeps things light and healthy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll look forward to making this again and again!
Why will you adore Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles?
Simplicity at its finest: You can whip up this dish with just a skillet and minimal effort, making it perfect for those hectic nights.
Fresh and vibrant: The combination of juicy shrimp and crunchy zucchini creates a delightful texture that’s pleasing to the palate.
Guilt-free indulgence: At around 120 calories per serving, this recipe is a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Versatile delight: Easily adapt it to your preference; swap zucchini for your favorite veggie or add whole grain pasta for a heartier meal.
Quick and satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious meal fast.
Explore more tasty weeknight ideas with our other healthy recipes – they’re bound to become family favorites!
Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results in this dish.
• Olive Oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich, flavorful sauté.
• Garlic – Fresh, finely minced garlic adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Red Chili Flakes – Adjust the amount based on your desired level of heat.
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed juice enhances the brightness of your garlic shrimp.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
For the Zucchini Noodles
• Zucchini – Fresh medium zucchini makes for a perfect low-carb noodle substitute; spiralize or cut into strips.
• Fresh Parsley – Use for garnish, imparting a lovely herbal note; basil works well as a substitute too.
Let these ingredients come together and transform into a delightful plate of Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles that’s sure to brighten your evening!
How to Make Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles
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Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will form the flavorful base of your dish, so be patient and let it get nice and hot.
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Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Cook Shrimp: Add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn opaque and are beautifully cooked.
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Set Aside Shrimp: Using tongs, gently remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. This helps keep them tender while you prepare the noodles.
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Add Zucchini Noodles: In the same skillet, toss in the spiralized zucchini noodles. Cook them on high heat for about 3-5 minutes, maintaining a bit of crunch to complement the dish’s texture.
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Combine and Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles. Mix everything well, adjusting the seasoning to your taste before serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Monitor cooking time closely; shrimp should be opaque and slightly firm to avoid becoming rubbery.
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Crunchy Zucchini Noodles: Keep zucchini noodles slightly firm for optimal texture—overcooking will make them mushy.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and lemon juice enhances the flavors significantly, so avoid substitutes for the best results.
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Flavor Adjustments: Taste your dish before serving; adding a pinch more salt or lemon juice can elevate the overall flavor profile.
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Meal Prep Friendly: You can spiralize zucchini in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days to save time on busy nights.
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles?
Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the fresh flavors and textures of this dish.
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Garlic Bread: This classic addition offers a crunchy, buttery texture with a hint of garlic that wonderfully mirrors the dish’s flavors.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens dressed in light vinaigrette adds crispness, balancing the richness of the shrimp.
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Roasted Asparagus: Its earthy, slightly charred flavor pairs beautifully with the zesty shrimp, providing a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.
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Quinoa: A fluffy, nutty side that offers a wholesome contrast to the light noodles while enhancing the protein content of your meal.
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Lemon Rice: The citrus flavor brightens up your plate and ties in nicely with the lemon juice in the garlic shrimp.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the dish’s garlic and herb flavors while refreshing your palate.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and airy treat satisfies your sweet tooth while remaining elegant, capping off your meal beautifully.
Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles Variations
Customize this vibrant dish to suit your taste and dietary needs—get ready to make it your own!
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Vegetable Swaps: Substitute zucchini with spiralized carrots or yellow squash for a different flavor and texture.
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Whole Grain Option: Incorporate whole grain pasta for a heartier meal, mixing it right in with the shrimp and garlic sauce.
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Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of parmesan or feta cheese before serving for a creamy, savory touch that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Protein Boost: Toss in diced chicken or tofu for an added protein punch without sacrificing the dish’s lightness.
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Hearty Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in fresh spinach or kale; they’ll wilt down nicely and add extra nutrients.
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Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime juice in place of lemon for a different citrus vibe that brightens the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the red chili flakes or add diced jalapeños for those who crave a bit of heat.
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Herb Variations: Use fresh basil or cilantro as a garnish instead of parsley to infuse exciting new flavors.
Explore these variations and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles
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Fridge: Store leftover garlic shrimp and zucchini noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring freshness and flavor retention.
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Freezer: If you wish to freeze, separate the shrimp and zucchini noodles before placing them in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, note that zucchini noodles may lose texture once thawed.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through, about 5 minutes, to preserve the dish’s vibrant flavors.
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Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare zucchini noodles ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows for a quick assembly of your garlic shrimp and zucchini noodles on busy weeknights.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick, nutritious dinner on busy nights! You can clean and season the shrimp up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. The zucchini noodles can be spiralized and kept fresh for up to 2 days in a separate container to maintain their crunch. To finish, simply sauté the garlic and shrimp as outlined, then add the zucchini noodles for a delightful, quick meal that feels freshly made. This way, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in minutes, making your evening cooking effortless!
Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results in this dish. This size provides a nice, juicy bite, allowing the shrimp to cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
How should I store leftover Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles?
You can store leftover garlic shrimp and zucchini noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep an eye on the zucchini noodles, as they are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles?
Yes, you can! However, I recommend separating the shrimp and zucchini noodles before freezing. Place them in freezer bags, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that zucchini noodles may lose their texture once thawed, so they’re best when enjoyed fresh.
How do I reheat the dish without losing its freshness?
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This will help retain the vibrant flavors without overcooking the shrimp or making the zucchini noodles mushy.
Can my pet share this dish?
While shrimp can be a great source of protein for dogs, it’s important to ensure they aren’t seasoned (no garlic or chili flakes!) and are fully cooked. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
What if my zucchini noodles are too mushy?
If your zucchini noodles turn out mushy, it may be due to overcooking. To avoid this in the future, aim for a cook time of just 3-5 minutes on high heat, and taste test to maintain that delightful crunch. If you prefer a little more heft in your dish, consider adding whole grain pasta!
Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles: A Flavorful Weeknight Win
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cleaned shrimp, seasoning with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn opaque.
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the spiralized zucchini noodles for 3-5 minutes, maintaining a bit of crunch.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles, mix everything well, and adjust the seasoning.