Introduction
Do you crave a delightful meal that’s both healthy and incredibly tasty? Look no further! Our Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Noodles Recipe is the perfect blend of savory shrimp, creamy garlic butter sauce, and fresh zucchini noodles. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your wellness journey. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this scrumptious recipe step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2-4 medium zucchini, spiralized (or use store-bought zoodles)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (depending on preference)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red pepper flakes for a kick
- Grated Parmesan cheese
cooking method of butter shrimp zucchini noodles:
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Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium-low and add the garlic to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Make the garlic butter sauce: Add the butter to the pan with the garlic. Swirl the pan to melt the butter and combine with the garlic. Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
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Season the sauce: Stir in salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two.
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Combine and heat: Add the cooked zoodles to the pan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the zoodles evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
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Serve: Stir in the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley (optional) and a squeeze of lemon (optional).
Tips for Perfect Noodles:
- Avoid overcooking to keep the noodles firm.
- Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Cooking Equipment
Spiralizer
A spiralizer is the best tool for making zoodles. It quickly turns zucchini into perfect noodles.
Skillet
A good-quality skillet is essential for cooking the shrimp and combining the ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board
You’ll need these for prepping the shrimp and garlic.
Nutritional Benefits
Health Benefits of Shrimp:Shrimp are low in calories but high in protein, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. They are also rich in selenium, choline, and vitamin B12.
Benefits of Zucchini Noodles:Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. They are high in vitamins A, C, and fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
Avoiding Common Mistakes:
- Do not overcook the zucchini noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Ensure the shrimp are not over-marinated, which can make them too salty.
Enhancing Flavors:
- Use fresh garlic and lemon for a more vibrant taste.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro.
Variations of the Recipe
Keto-Friendly Modifications:This recipe is already keto-friendly, but you can add more healthy fats like avocado slices or a drizzle of olive oil.
Vegan and Vegetarian Alternatives:Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use vegan butter to create a delicious plant-based version.
Conclusion
Our Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Noodles Recipe is a culinary delight that’s easy to make and brimming with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, this recipe has you covered. Try it out and savor the perfect combination of garlic butter shrimp and fresh zucchini noodles.