Skinny Shrimp Scampi Zucchini Noodles (Print Version)

Tender shrimp and zucchini noodles in a bright garlic lemon sauce. Ready in 25 minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Vegetables

02 - 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
03 - 2 cups baby spinach, optional
04 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
05 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, optional

→ Aromatics and Flavor

06 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
08 - Zest of 1 lemon
09 - Juice of 1 large lemon
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Fats

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional, or additional olive oil for dairy-free

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional

# Recipe Steps:

01 - Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
04 - Add zucchini noodles and toss with tongs for 2 to 3 minutes until tender yet slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
05 - Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and cherry tomatoes if using. Toss ingredients to combine thoroughly.
06 - Return shrimp with accumulated juices to the skillet. Add baby spinach if using and toss until just wilted.
07 - Remove from heat. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
08 - Divide among serving bowls and top with optional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish
  • Low-carb and gluten-free without sacrificing flavor
  • Perfectly cooked shrimp in a fragrant garlic-lemon sauce
  • Fresh zucchini noodles provide a nutritious alternative to pasta
  • Easily adaptable for dairy-free diets
02 -
  • Spiralize your own zucchini just before cooking for the freshest texture
  • Don't toss out the zucchini cores—chop them for use in stir-fries or omelets
  • Prep all ingredients before you start cooking, as this dish comes together quickly
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of dry white wine with the garlic
  • Zucchini noodles release water as they cook; avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess
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