Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

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I can still remember the first time I made this dish. It was a weeknight, and I craved something refreshing, light, and quick. I had some shrimp in the fridge and a couple of zucchini that needed using, and the idea just came together. What started as a last-minute experiment turned into one of the most requested meals in my kitchen.

There’s something irresistible about the way lemon and garlic come together. The zingy brightness of fresh lemon juice, combined with the warmth of garlic sautéed in olive oil, creates a flavor base that turns even the simplest ingredients into something luxurious. Pair that with tender shrimp and the satisfying bite of zucchini noodles, and you’ve got a dinner that tastes indulgent but feels light.

This recipe has since become my go-to for those days when I need something fast but nourishing. It’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and packed with protein and veggies. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

This dish is a perfect balance of bright, savory, and comforting flavors. The zucchini noodles soak up all the lemony, garlicky goodness without becoming soggy, and the shrimp cook up juicy and flavorful every time. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, avoid gluten, or just want something light and tasty, this recipe delivers. It’s also great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes.

Ingredients

Shrimp: I prefer large or jumbo shrimp for this dish because they stay juicy and have a great bite. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy eating.

Zucchini: These are spiralized into noodles (aka zoodles), serving as a low-carb alternative to pasta while adding a lovely, light crunch.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must. It infuses the olive oil with deep flavor that’s key to the sauce.

Lemon Juice and Zest: The juice adds brightness and acidity while the zest intensifies the citrus aroma.

Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil acts as the flavor base. It’s used to sauté the garlic and shrimp and coats the zucchini noodles perfectly.

Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but I love the hint of heat they bring to balance the lemon.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby touch that finishes the dish beautifully.

Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, of course, and to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.

How to Make Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash and spiralize your zucchini if you’re not using pre-spiralized noodles. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Add the Zucchini Noodles

In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed and toss in the zucchini noodles. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they begin to soften but still hold a slight crunch.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving and enjoy immediately while the shrimp are hot and the zucchini noodles still have that perfect texture.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. If you don’t have shrimp on hand, scallops or even chunks of firm white fish like cod work beautifully. Prefer chicken? Thinly sliced chicken breast can be a great substitute, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

If zucchini isn’t your thing, try using spaghetti squash, kelp noodles, or shirataki noodles instead. You can also toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes or baby spinach for added color and nutrition. For those who enjoy a creamy finish, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk stirred in at the end gives the sauce a luscious texture.

Herb-wise, fresh basil or dill can step in for parsley and give a slightly different, but equally delightful, flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving this lemon garlic shrimp with zucchini noodles as a standalone dish for a light dinner, but it also pairs well with a side of crusty bread or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal. If you’re entertaining, serve it alongside a chilled white wine—Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are fantastic choices.

A simple side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette enhances the citrus notes in the dish. You can also serve it as a warm salad on a bed of baby greens for a bistro-style meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind, zucchini noodles release moisture as they sit, so it’s best to store the shrimp and zoodles separately if possible.

To reheat, place everything in a skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can—it can make the shrimp rubbery and the noodles soggy.

FAQs

How do I keep the zucchini noodles from getting soggy in Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?

Cook the zoodles just until slightly tender, not soft. Also, avoid salting them before cooking as this draws out moisture.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

Is Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles keto-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great fit for a keto lifestyle.

What’s the best way to spiralize zucchini for Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?

I recommend using a handheld spiralizer or a countertop model for more uniform noodles. You can also find pre-spiralized zucchini in most grocery stores.

Can I make Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the components ahead, but for the best texture, combine and cook everything right before serving.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re as into easy seafood dinners as I am, you’ll definitely want to check out this Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe. It’s hearty, rich, and makes a perfect companion to the lightness of zucchini noodles. Another great recipe to try is the Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage if you’re craving something with more depth and smoky flavor. And if you’re on a veggie streak, don’t miss the Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds—they’re a delightful side dish or even a snack on their own.

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If this Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles sounds like your kind of meal, don’t forget to save it! Pin this recipe on your favorite Pinterest board to keep it handy for those busy weeknights. I’d also love it if you shared it with your friends or family—email it, post it on Facebook, or drop the link in your favorite foodie group. Cooking and sharing go hand in hand!

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