Introduction
This delightful dish brings together the fresh flavors of zucchini and succulent shrimp, all enhanced by the aromatic touch of garlic and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is not only flavorful but also healthy. The spiralized zucchini acts as a wonderful low-carb alternative to pasta, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dinner without the guilt.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced and divided
1 pound (approximately 3 medium-sized) zucchini, spiralized
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 shallot, minced
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This recipe results in a vibrant, tasty dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with the rich flavors of seafood. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Garlic
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Cook Zucchini Noodles
Add the spiralized zucchini to the skillet and cook until just tender, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare Shrimp Mixture
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic and the minced shallot. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Flavorings
Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the shrimp immediately over the warm zucchini noodles.
Notes
– Ensure the skillet is not overcrowded when cooking the shrimp for even cooking.
– Adjust seasoning to your preference for salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
– Fresh parsley can be substituted with other herbs like basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
Cook techniques
Butter Melting
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat for even distribution of flavors.
Garlic Infusion
Cook minced garlic until fragrant to release its aromatic oils into the butter.
Spiralizing Zucchini
Use a spiralizer to transform zucchini into noodles, enhancing texture and presentation.
Seasoning
Always season with salt and pepper during cooking to build layers of flavor.
Sautéing Shrimp
Cook shrimp until they turn pink, ensuring they are fully cooked and tender.
Lemon Zesting
Use a zester for fresh lemon zest to add brightness and a citrus finish to the dish.
Garnishing
Add fresh parsley at the end for a vibrant color and fresh flavor enhancement.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute with traditional pasta or other vegetable noodles based on your preference.
How can I tell when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp turn opaque and pink when cooked through, and their shape will curl slightly.
What if I don’t have a spiralizer?
You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips of zucchini as an alternative.
Can I make this dish without butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This shrimp and zucchini dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious meal. The spiralized zucchini serves as a healthy and gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta, while the shrimp adds protein and a satisfying bite. With the aromatic garlic, shallot, and fresh parsley, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Lemon Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
Replace shrimp with chicken breast strips and season with lemon zest and garlic for a savory twist.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Zucchini Slaw
Use the shrimp and toss them in taco seasoning. Serve with a slaw made from spiralized zucchini, lime juice, and cilantro.
Zucchini and Shrimp Stir-Fry
Combine shrimp with spiralized zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli, stir-fried in a soy sauce and garlic mixture for an Asian-inspired dish.
Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles
Make a classic shrimp scampi, adding spiralized zucchini in place of pasta for a lighter option.
Chilled Shrimp and Zucchini Salad
Prepare the shrimp boiled or grilled and mix with spiralized zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
