How to Make the Perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles
Mediterranean · Easy · 20 min · 2 servings
Spiralized zucchini noodles are tossed with plump shrimp in a bright lemon garlic sauce that keeps sodium extremely low. This light and satisfying dish comes together in under 20 minutes for a perfect weeknight meal.
Why this recipe works
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 220 calories with 26g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 300 grams raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 medium zucchini spiralized into noodles
- 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 whole lemon juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zoodles
Spiralize the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler. Place them on a paper towel and press gently to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 2 minutes until the garlic is golden and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan or the shrimp will steam instead of sear.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add the zucchini noodles to the pan with lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together for 2 minutes until the zoodles are just tender but still have a slight bite.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- zucchini noodles → whole wheat spaghetti for a heartier meal
- raw shrimp → diced chicken breast for a non-seafood version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not removing enough moisture from the zucchini which makes the dish watery
- Overcooking the shrimp which causes them to become rubbery and tough
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 220 calories, 26g protein, 9g carbs, 10g fat, 3g fiber.
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