Are you looking for a quick and healthy dinner? Garlic Shrimp Scampi Zoodles is the answer! This dish combines shrimp with zoodles for a tasty twist. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you're on a low-carb diet or just want something light, this meal checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious recipe for your next weeknight dinner!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Healthy and Delicious: Using zoodles instead of pasta makes this dish lighter while still being flavorful.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables to the mix.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan, this dish looks as good as it tastes!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- Zucchini and Shrimp
- 2 medium zucchinis (for zoodles)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Seasonings and Oils
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnishes and Optional Add-Ons
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
To make Garlic Shrimp Scampi Zoodles, you'll need fresh ingredients. Start with two medium zucchinis. These will become your zoodles. A pound of large shrimp adds protein and flavor.
Next, gather your seasonings. You will need four cloves of minced garlic. Olive oil and butter create a rich base. Red pepper flakes give it a nice kick. Don't forget the zest and juice of one lemon for brightness. Salt and pepper will enhance all the flavors.
For garnishing, fresh parsley adds color and taste. If you like, sprinkle on grated Parmesan cheese when serving. These ingredients come together to create a meal that is both healthy and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Zoodles
Using a Spiralizer or Julienne Peeler To start, take your two zucchinis. Use a spiralizer or a julienne peeler to turn them into long noodles. This step is fun and quick. Just twist the zucchini and watch the noodles form.
Setting Aside Prepared Zoodles Once you have your zoodles ready, set them aside on a clean plate. This way, they are ready for cooking later. Keep them in a cool place to avoid wilting.
Cooking the Shrimp
Sautéing Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes Now, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add four minced garlic cloves and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté these for about thirty seconds. The smell will be amazing!
Cooking the Shrimp to Perfect Doneness Next, toss in one pound of large shrimp, which should be peeled and deveined. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for two to three minutes. You know they are done when they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside on a plate.
Combining Ingredients
Sautéing Zoodles and Adding Shrimp In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of olive oil and two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt fully. Then, add your zoodles back into the skillet. Sauté for two to three minutes. You want them tender but still a bit crunchy.
Final Seasoning Adjustments Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the zest and juice of one lemon. Stir everything together and cook for one more minute to heat through. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. It's now ready to serve!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Zoodles
To make great zoodles, I recommend using fresh zucchini. Choose firm ones for the best texture. Here are some tips for cooking zoodles without sogginess:
- Quick Cooking: Sauté zoodles for only 2-3 minutes. This keeps them crunchy.
- Salt Drain: Sprinkle salt on zoodles before cooking. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out water. Pat dry with a towel.
- High Heat: Cook zoodles over medium-high heat. This helps them cook fast and avoid mushiness.
For spiralizing zucchini, the right tools make a big difference. I suggest:
- Spiralizer: A manual spiralizer is easy to use and works well.
- Julienne Peeler: This tool is handy if you want thin strips. It's quick and easy to clean.
- Food Processor: Some food processors have spiralizing attachments. They can save time if you make zoodles often.
Enhancing Flavor
To make your Garlic Shrimp Scampi Zoodles pop, adjusting spice levels is key. If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. For less spice, use less or skip them.
You can also add extra ingredients for more flavor:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color.
- Spinach: Add fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking. It wilts nicely and adds nutrients.
- Lemon Zest: Add more lemon zest for a brighter taste. It enhances the dish without extra calories.
Feel free to get creative. Each addition can make this dish your own!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Select firm, fresh zucchinis that are free of blemishes for the best zoodle texture.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; once they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to avoid toughness.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less red pepper flakes and add more gradually as needed.
- Serve Immediately: Zoodles can become soggy if they sit too long, so serve this dish right after cooking for the best texture.
Variations
Protein Substitutes
Using Chicken or Tofu You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. For chicken, use boneless thighs or breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cook them until they are golden and fully cooked. For tofu, choose firm or extra-firm. Cut it into cubes and sauté until crispy. Both options work well with garlic and lemon flavors.
Adding Scallops or Crab If you want a seafood twist, consider scallops or crab. Scallops cook quickly, taking just a few minutes. Sear them until they are golden on each side. Crab adds a sweet, delicate flavor. Use lump crab meat and fold it in gently at the end.
Different Vegetable Options
Incorporating Other Veggies Feel free to add other vegetables for more flavor and nutrients. Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can all enhance your dish. Slice them thinly and sauté them along with the zoodles. This adds color and a variety of textures.
Low-Carb Alternatives If you want to keep it low-carb, many options exist. Try using spaghetti squash or even shirataki noodles. Both are great for a lighter meal. They soak up the sauce very well, making them a tasty option without added carbs.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration Guidelines: Store your garlic shrimp scampi zoodles in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cool the dish first before sealing it. This helps keep the flavors bright.
- Freezing Instructions: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dish. Place cooled zoodles and shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove all air before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Best Methods to Reheat Zoodles and Shrimp: The best way to reheat is using a skillet. Heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir gently until heated through. This keeps the shrimp tender and zoodles fresh.
- Avoiding Soggy Noodles When Reheating: To avoid soggy noodles, do not add extra liquid when reheating. If the zoodles seem too wet, sauté them briefly to evaporate excess moisture. This will help maintain their texture and keep your meal delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. To store it, follow these tips:
- Cook and cool: Make the garlic shrimp scampi zoodles, then let them cool.
- Use airtight containers: Place the dish in airtight containers. This keeps it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: Zoodles can get mushy when frozen. It's best to enjoy them fresh.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you have seafood allergies, there are tasty alternatives:
- Chicken: Use diced chicken breast for a hearty option.
- Tofu: Try firm tofu for a plant-based choice.
- Scallops: For a seafood option, scallops work well too.
- Crab: Use lump crab meat for a sweet, delicate flavor.
How do I prevent zoodles from getting soggy?
Soggy zoodles can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to keep them firm:
- Salt the zoodles: Lightly salt the zoodles and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Cook briefly: Sauté the zoodles for just 2-3 minutes. This keeps them crunchy.
- Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps evaporate moisture quickly.
- Add at the end: Mix in zoodles last, right before serving. This avoids overcooking.
This recipe gives you a tasty and fun dish with zoodles and shrimp. You learned how to prepare and cook each part. Follow the tips to keep your zoodles crunchy and add your favorite proteins and veggies. Don’t be afraid to try different flavors. This dish is easy to make and a great low-carb option. Enjoy experimenting as you create your own version! Happy cooking!
