Savory Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles Quick Recipe

If you crave a tasty meal that's light and quick, you've found it! This Savory Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles recipe combines fresh shrimp with spiralized zucchini for a fun twist on a classic dish. I’ll guide you through easy steps to whip this up in no time. Whether you're a busy parent or just looking for a healthy option, this dish will impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into the simple steps!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles

- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegan option)

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 3 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Zest of 1 lemon (for added flavor)

To make shrimp scampi zucchini noodles, you need fresh ingredients. Start with zucchini. You will spiralize it into noodles. This makes a light base for your dish. Use about four medium zucchinis.

Next, use large shrimp. You want them peeled and deveined. This saves time and makes cooking easier. Shrimp adds a nice protein boost.

You will also need broth. Chicken broth works well, but you can use vegetable broth for vegan options. This broth adds depth to the dish.

For seasoning, gather garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Garlic gives great flavor. Olive oil adds richness, while lemon juice brightens every bite. Red pepper flakes can add heat, depending on your taste.

Finally, fresh parsley and lemon zest are for garnish. They add color and a fresh finish to your dish. With these ingredients ready, you will create a delicious meal that is quick and easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Spiralizing the Zucchini

Start by washing the zucchini well. Cut off the ends. Use a spiralizer to make noodles. If you don’t have one, a vegetable peeler works too. Make long, thin strips. Once you finish, put the noodles on a clean kitchen towel. This helps soak up extra water. You want them dry to keep the dish from getting soggy.

Cooking the Shrimp

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until it gets hot. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds. The garlic will become fragrant but don’t let it burn. Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes over them. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink. Once done, take the shrimp out and set them aside.

Combining Ingredients in the Skillet

In the same skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Scrape any tasty brown bits from the pan. This adds flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly. Now, it's time to add the zucchini noodles. Toss them in the skillet, coating them with the broth. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes, just until they're tender but still a bit firm.

Finalizing the Dish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the zest of 1 lemon and toss everything together. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Drizzle with the last tablespoon of olive oil and give it a gentle toss. Serve your vibrant dish immediately. Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious shrimp scampi zucchini noodles!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Shrimp Cooking Technique

To cook shrimp perfectly, start with large, fresh shrimp. They should be pink and firm. I like to season them lightly with salt and pepper. This helps bring out their natural flavor. Heat your skillet on medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until it smells great. This takes about 30 seconds. Then, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Do not overcook the shrimp. Overcooked shrimp can taste tough.

Zucchini Noodle Preparation Tips

For great zucchini noodles, use a spiralizer. It turns zucchini into fun noodle shapes. After spiralizing, place the noodles on a kitchen towel. This helps soak up extra water. If you skip this step, your dish may become watery. Cook the noodles in the skillet for about 2-4 minutes. They should be tender but still a bit firm. This keeps them from getting mushy.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients

I love adding lemon zest for a bright taste. It boosts the dish's freshness. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Adjust the amount to fit your spice level. You can also try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These give your dish extra depth. Lastly, a splash of white wine can enhance the sauce's richness. Just remember to let it simmer to cook off the alcohol.

Variations

Vegan Option: Using Tofu or Vegetables

If you want a vegan version, swap shrimp for tofu. Use firm tofu, cut into cubes. Sauté the tofu until golden brown in olive oil. You can also add a mix of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms. This choice keeps the dish tasty and colorful.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

Zucchini noodles are naturally gluten-free. If you want to add more texture, consider using gluten-free pasta. Just cook it separately, then mix it with the zucchini noodles. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without gluten concerns.

Spice Level Modifications

To adjust the spice level, change the red pepper flakes. For mild heat, use just a pinch. If you love spice, add more flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. This flexibility lets you personalize the dish to your taste.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Place the shrimp scampi zucchini noodles in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the shrimp from the noodles if possible. This helps keep the noodles firm. Use the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use a skillet or the microwave. If using a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the noodles and shrimp, stirring gently. Cook until warm, about 3-5 minutes. If using a microwave, place the noodles and shrimp in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing Guidelines

Freezing is not the best for this dish. The zucchini noodles can become mushy after freezing. However, you can freeze the shrimp scampi sauce. Place it in a freezer bag and remove excess air. Use it within 1-2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat. Enjoy the fresh flavors of shrimp scampi when you can!

FAQs

What are zucchini noodles?

Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are long strands made from zucchini. You can make them using a spiralizer. They are a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Zoodles are light, fresh, and soak up flavors well. You can serve them with various sauces, like shrimp scampi.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes to speed up thawing. Once thawed, peel and devein if needed. This way, you still get juicy shrimp in your dish.

How do I prevent zucchini noodles from getting soggy?

To keep zucchini noodles from getting soggy, follow these tips:

- Salt the noodles: Sprinkle salt on the zoodles and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out moisture.

- Pat dry: Use a clean kitchen towel to absorb the extra water.

- Cook briefly: Sauté the zoodles for only 2-4 minutes. This keeps them crisp and al dente.

- Add sauce last: Toss in the sauce right before serving. This helps maintain texture.

Additional Common Questions

If you have more questions, feel free to ask! Cooking is all about exploring and enjoying good food.

This blog post covered making a tasty dish with zucchini noodles and shrimp. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to adapt the recipe for different diets and store leftovers.

Cooking can be fun and simple with these guidelines. Try new flavors and enjoy your meals. You'll impress your friends and family with these zucchini noodles!