Welcome to a quick and tasty dish that you can make in just 15 minutes! Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp is a flavor burst you’ll love. This recipe features fresh zoodles and juicy shrimp, all coated in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. Whether you are busy or just want something light and healthy, this meal is perfect for you. Let’s jump into the ingredients, steps, and tips to make this meal shine!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized (zoodles)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Nutritional Information
This dish serves two people. Each serving is low in calories and high in taste. You get protein from shrimp and vitamins from zucchini. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Suggested Equipment
To make Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp, you need some basic kitchen tools:
– Spiralizer or julienne peeler
– Large skillet
– Cooking spatula
– Knife and cutting board
– Measuring spoons
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. Enjoy crafting this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Zoodles
To start, grab your zucchinis. You need two medium-sized ones. Use a spiralizer or a julienne peeler to turn them into zoodles. This step is fun and quick. Set the zoodles aside on a plate. They will wait for their turn in the skillet.
Cooking the Shrimp
Now, let’s cook the shrimp. Take a large skillet and melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add four cloves of minced garlic. If you like heat, toss in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté this mix for about one minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not burnt.
Next, add one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for two to three minutes on one side until they turn pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another two to three minutes. When done, season them with salt and pepper. Now, squeeze in one tablespoon of lemon juice. Give it a good stir to mix all those tasty flavors.
Combining Ingredients
It’s time to bring everything together. Gently add the zoodles to the skillet. Toss them with the shrimp and garlic butter. Heat everything through for about two to three minutes. You want the zoodles to be warm but still crisp.
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley. If you love cheese, add grated Parmesan on top. Serve your Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp right away for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce
To make the best garlic butter sauce, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic gives the sauce a strong, rich taste. Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir it gently for about one minute. Watch the garlic closely; you don’t want it to burn. A burnt garlic taste can spoil the dish. The butter should be bubbly but not browning.
Shrimp Cooking Tips
For juicy shrimp, choose large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. This saves time and makes cooking easier. Heat your skillet well before adding the shrimp. Cook them for about two to three minutes on one side. When they turn pink, flip them over. Cook for another two to three minutes. Always check for doneness; the shrimp should be opaque. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Zoodle Cooking Tips
Zoodles cook quickly, so don’t overdo it. After adding them to the skillet, toss gently with the shrimp. Heat them for only two to three minutes. You want them warm but still firm. Overcooking makes zoodles mushy. If you like, you can add a splash of lemon juice for extra taste. This brightens the dish and pairs well with the garlic butter.
Variations
Substitutes for Shrimp
You can easily swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken breast works well in this recipe. Just cut it into small pieces and cook until golden. Tofu is another great option for a plant-based meal. It absorbs flavors well and adds a nice texture. You can also use scallops or fish instead. Both cook quickly and taste amazing with garlic butter.
Different Vegetables for Zoodles
Zoodles are just one option. You can spiralize other veggies for fun twists. Carrots are sweet and colorful, while cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. Sweet potatoes can give a hearty feel. Even butternut squash works well. Each veggie brings its own flavor to the dish. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo.
Sauce Variations
The garlic butter sauce is simple but can be changed. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or some hot sauce. A splash of white wine can add depth to the sauce. You might also try adding herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor. If you enjoy creaminess, stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese. These changes can create a new dish each time!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Make sure to cool it down first. Avoid letting it sit out too long. If you want, you can add more butter or lemon juice when reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or butter. This will help keep the zoodles from turning mushy. Stir often until heated through. You can also use a microwave. Place the dish in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Be careful not to overheat, or the shrimp may become rubbery.
Freezing Guidance
I do not recommend freezing this dish. The zoodles can become watery and mushy. If you have extra shrimp, you can freeze that. Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before cooking.
FAQs
How do I spiralize zucchini?
To spiralize zucchini, you need a spiralizer or a julienne peeler.
1. Wash the zucchinis. Rinse them under cool water.
2. Cut off the ends. Trim both ends of each zucchini.
3. Attach to the spiralizer. Place the zucchini in the device.
4. Turn and twist. Rotate the handle to create zoodles.
5. Collect the noodles. Let the zoodles fall into a bowl.
This fun tool helps you make long, thin strands. They look like pasta and taste fresh.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prep some parts ahead of time, but it’s best to cook fresh.
– Spiralize the zucchini. Do this a few hours early.
– Peel and devein shrimp. Keep them in the fridge until cooking.
Cook everything right before serving. This keeps the zoodles crisp and shrimp tender.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp?
You can pair this dish with many sides for a complete meal.
– Crusty bread. Great for dipping in any leftover garlic butter.
– Mixed green salad. Adds a fresh crunch to your meal.
– Steamed vegetables. Broccoli or asparagus work well beside this dish.
Feel free to get creative and enjoy your meal!
In this article, we covered how to make Garlic Butter Zoodle Shrimp. We explored ingredients, nutritional values, and useful equipment. I shared clear steps for preparing zoodles, cooking shrimp, and combining everything. Tips helped improve the sauce and shrimp cooking. We discussed variations for ingredients and sauces as well as proper storage.
Now you have the tools to create a delicious dish. Enjoy your cooking and feel free to get creative!
