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Healthy Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

healthy garlic shrimp with zucchini noodles - featured image

A quick, protein-packed, and flavorful meal featuring garlicky shrimp sautéed with fresh zucchini noodles. Perfect for light dinners or meal prep with simple ingredients and a healthy twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the zucchinis and trim the ends. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchinis into noodles. Place the noodles in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Let it marinate briefly for about 5 minutes while heating the pan.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  5. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan, reduce heat to medium, and toss in the zucchini noodles. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. Return the shrimp to the pan with the noodles, squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, and toss gently to combine. Heat through for another minute.
  7. Transfer to plates, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Salting zucchini noodles before cooking helps remove excess moisture and prevents sogginess. Cook shrimp in batches to avoid steaming and ensure a good sear. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain texture; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy shrimp recipe, garlic shrimp, zucchini noodles, low carb dinner, quick shrimp meal, protein packed, gluten free, easy dinner