Fresh Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zoodles
A quick, light, and healthy meal featuring succulent lemon garlic shrimp served over crisp zucchini noodles. Perfect for busy weeknights and gluten-free diets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the zoodles: Wash zucchinis and spiralize into noodles. Place in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the shrimp: Toss shrimp with half the minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Marinate for 5 minutes.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and zoodles: Lower heat to medium, add butter (if using) and remaining garlic. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add zoodles and toss gently for 2-3 minutes until tender but crisp.
- Combine and finish: Return shrimp to pan, add red pepper flakes if desired, and squeeze lemon juice over all. Toss gently and heat through for 1 minute. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
If zoodles seem watery, drain or pat dry again before cooking to avoid sogginess. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Use fresh garlic and lemon zest for best flavor. Butter is optional and adds richness; substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, zoodles, zucchini noodles, healthy shrimp recipe, gluten-free, low-carb, quick dinner, light meal