Embark on a flavorful culinary journey with this zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp recipe. This dish combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the refreshing tanginess of lemon and the sharp bite of garlic. All nestled on a bed of healthy and light zucchini noodles, this recipe is a perfect blend of taste and health, making it a go-to choice for a quick midweek dinner.
This recipe calls for zucchini that is turned into noodles, often referred to as 'zoodles'. While zucchini is a common vegetable, the noodle form of it might not be readily available in all supermarkets. In this case, you might need to purchase a spiralizer to make your own zucchini noodles at home. Also, we are using grape tomatoes which are smaller and sweeter than regular tomatoes. If you're unable to find them, cherry tomatoes could be a suitable substitute.
Ingredients for Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle depth to the dish.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the shrimp.
Shrimp: The star of this dish, providing a satisfying, meaty bite.
Garlic: Provides an aromatic base for the dish.
Zucchini: Transformed into noodles, they serve as a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
Salt and fresh black pepper: Used for seasoning to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Lemon: Its juice provides a fresh, acidic counterpoint to the rich flavors of the shrimp.
Grape tomatoes: They add a sweet and slightly acidic flavor to the dish.
One reader, Ingunna Roque says:
This zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant. The zucchini noodles are a great low-carb alternative, and the shrimp is perfectly seasoned. It's a quick and healthy meal that I can't get enough of. Highly recommend trying it out!
Cooking Techniques for Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
How to cook the shrimp: The shrimp should be cooked for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.
How to cook the zucchini noodles: The zucchini noodles should be cooked for about 1 1/2 minutes until they are tender but still have a slight crunch.
How to season the shrimp: Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
How to crush red pepper flakes: Gently crush the red pepper flakes between your fingers before adding them to the skillet to release their flavor.
How to squeeze the lemon: Squeeze the lemon over the dish to add a bright, citrusy flavor to the zucchini noodles and shrimp.
How To Make Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Serve an easy, low carb meal with these zucchini noodles tossed with spiced shrimp and tomatoes, finished with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½tspolive oil
- pinchred pepper flakes,crushed
- 4ozshrimp,peeled and deveined
- 2clovesgarlic,sliced thin and divided
- 7ozzucchini,1 medium, spiralized
- pinchsalt and fresh black pepper
- ¼lemon
- ¼cupgrape tomatoes,halved
Instructions
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Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add 1 teaspoon of the oil and crush red pepper flakes, add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
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Add half of the garlic and continue cooking for 1 more minute, or until the shrimp is cooked through and opaque. Set aside on a dish.
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Add the remaining ½ teaspoon oil and garlic to the pan, cook for 30 seconds then add the zucchini noodles and cook for 1½ minutes.
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Add the shrimp and tomatoes to the pan and squeeze the lemon over the dish.
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Remove from heat and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 197.82kcal
- Fat: 8.73g
- Saturated Fat: 1.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.18g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.30g
- Carbohydrates: 12.97g
- Fiber: 3.33g
- Sugar: 6.54g
- Protein: 18.88g
- Cholesterol: 142.88mg
- Sodium: 892.97mg
- Calcium: 117.29mg
- Potassium: 809.22mg
- Iron: 1.43mg
- Vitamin A: 99.91µg
- Vitamin C: 51.07mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
When cooking the shrimp, it's important to not overcook them as they can become rubbery. The key is to cook them until they just turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Also, when adding the zucchini noodles to the pan, try not to overcook them as well. They should be slightly al dente, similar to pasta. Overcooking can lead to mushy noodles. Lastly, when adding the lemon juice, make sure to squeeze it over a strainer to catch any seeds that might fall into the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Zucchini Noodle Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and marinate the shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a spiralizer: Invest in a spiralizer to quickly and easily create zucchini noodles, saving time on prep work.
One-pan cooking: Opt for a single skillet to cook the entire dish, minimizing cleanup and saving time on washing multiple pots and pans.
Multitask: While the shrimp is cooking, simultaneously prepare the zucchini noodles to expedite the overall cooking time.
Frozen shrimp: Consider using pre-peeled and deveined frozen shrimp to skip the time-consuming task of cleaning and deveining fresh shrimp.
Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the necessary ingredients and tools to efficiently assemble the dish.
Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide the same level of heat and spiciness as red pepper flakes in the dish.
shrimp - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Sliced chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp to create a different protein option while still maintaining a delicious flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic, adding depth to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
zucchini - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be spiralized and cooked similarly to zucchini, offering a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor profile.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can provide a tangy and citrusy flavor similar to lemon, adding brightness to the dish.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for grape tomatoes, offering a similar sweet and juicy burst of flavor.
Presentation Tips for Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: When plating the zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp, pay attention to the visual appeal. Arrange the zucchini noodles in a nest-like shape, placing the shrimp on top, and garnish with halved grape tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Create a balance of textures by ensuring the zucchini noodles are cooked al dente, the shrimp is tender, and the grape tomatoes burst with juiciness. This will add depth and interest to each bite.
Focus on precision and attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Ensure that the dish is meticulously arranged, and the components are evenly distributed for a harmonious and visually appealing presentation.
Utilize vibrant and fresh ingredients: Select the freshest zucchinis, plump and succulent shrimp, and ripe grape tomatoes to enhance the overall aesthetic and flavor profile of the dish.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Treat the plate as a canvas, using negative space to create an elegant and sophisticated presentation. The dish should be visually striking and inviting, drawing the eye to the vibrant colors and textures.
Incorporate a touch of greenery: Add a sprig of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, as a final garnish to add a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness to the dish.
Emphasize the natural beauty of the ingredients: Let the natural colors and textures of the zucchini, shrimp, and tomatoes shine through, creating a visually stunning and appetizing presentation that highlights the essence of each ingredient.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience and adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Zucchini Noodles and Shrimp
- Medium nonstick skillet: A nonstick skillet is ideal for cooking the shrimp and zucchini noodles without them sticking to the pan.
- Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to crush the garlic cloves for easy incorporation into the dish.
- Lemon squeezer: A lemon squeezer can be used to extract the juice from the lemon without getting the seeds into the dish.
- Tongs: Tongs can be used to toss and turn the shrimp and zucchini noodles while cooking.
- Knife: A knife is essential for slicing the zucchini into noodles and cutting the grape tomatoes.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the zucchini and tomatoes.
- Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- To store leftover zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent air from entering and to maintain the freshness of the dish.
- Place the sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the zucchini noodles and shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
- If you wish to freeze the zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp for later consumption, it's best to freeze the components separately:
- Place the cooked and cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Blanch the zucchini noodles in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the noodles well and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Place the blanched and dried zucchini noodles in a separate freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label both containers with the date and contents, then place them in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp, first thaw the components in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, reheat the shrimp and zucchini noodles separately in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Combine the reheated components in the skillet, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if desired), and toss gently to combine before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover zucchini noodles and shrimp in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with foil. Heat the dish in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the food is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the shrimp and prevents the zucchini noodles from becoming soggy.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to keep the zucchini noodles moist and prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the food is heated through. Be sure to stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a crispier texture for your zucchini noodles, you can reheat them in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover zucchini noodles and shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the food is heated through and the zucchini noodles have slightly crisped up.
For a cold dish option, you can enjoy the leftover zucchini noodles and shrimp as a refreshing salad. Simply remove the leftovers from the refrigerator, toss them with a small amount of lemon juice and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This method works best if the leftovers have been stored separately from any sauce or dressing.
Interesting Fact About Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Zucchini noodles are a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta and are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Is Making Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Cost-Effective?
This zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as zucchini and shrimp, are reasonably priced and can be found in most grocery stores. The addition of garlic and lemon adds a burst of flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it an affordable and delicious option for a family meal.
Is This Zucchini Noodle Recipe Healthy?
The zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish that offers a balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. The use of zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta provides a low-carb and nutrient-dense alternative, while the shrimp offers lean protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. The inclusion of garlic and red pepper flakes adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives. Additionally, the lemon juice provides a burst of vitamin C and helps to brighten the overall taste of the dish.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding more zucchini noodles or incorporating other nutrient-rich options like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms
- Use a high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil to maximize the health benefits of the healthy fats
- Opt for wild-caught shrimp, as they tend to have a better nutritional profile compared to farm-raised varieties
- Include additional herbs and spices, such as fresh basil or oregano, to boost the flavor and antioxidant content of the dish
- Serve the zucchini noodles and shrimp alongside a colorful side salad to increase the overall fiber and nutrient intake of the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodle Dish
This zucchini noodles with lemon garlic shrimp recipe is a delightful and light dish that is bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and succulent shrimp creates a harmonious blend of tastes. The use of zucchini noodles adds a healthy twist to the dish, making it a perfect option for those looking for a low-carb alternative. The addition of grape tomatoes brings a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a quick and satisfying meal that is both delicious and nutritious.
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Why trust this Zucchini Noodles with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The succulent shrimp is cooked to perfection with a hint of garlic and a touch of heat from the red pepper flakes. The zucchini noodles are tender and absorb the savory essence of the dish. The addition of lemon brightens the flavors, while the burst of sweetness from the grape tomatoes adds a delightful contrast. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as olive oil and the careful attention to detail in the cooking process, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
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