If you are searching for a vibrant, healthy, and utterly delightful dinner that feels both indulgent and light, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Picture succulent, garlicky shrimp swimming in a luscious butter sauce, perfectly paired with tender zucchini noodles that soak up every bit of flavor without weighing you down. It’s fresh, easy to make, and packs a punch of nutrition and taste that will have you savoring every bite and asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the fresh shrimp that’s juicy and tender, to the buttery sauce, and the crisp zucchini noodles that add a refreshing twist.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, providing a sweet and tender bite.
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles: Fresh and light, these replace traditional pasta while adding a vibrant green color.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee for Whole30): Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats everything beautifully.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma and deep flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity undertone and helps cook the shrimp to perfection.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the entire dish with a fresh, zesty kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle spicy warmth for anyone looking to spice things up.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free): Adds a creamy, salty finish if you like a touch of indulgence.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prep the zucchini noodles
Start by turning those fresh zucchinis into noodle-like spirals using a spiralizer. This is what gives the dish its light and vibrant character. Once spiralized, place them on a paper towel and give them a light sprinkle of salt. This step helps draw out excess moisture so your noodles don’t become watery when cooked. Letting them sit while you focus on the shrimp sets you up perfectly for the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the shrimp
Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat—it’s here that the magic begins. Once melted and fragrant, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds to release their aromas. Now, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer so each one gets beautifully pink and opaque without steaming. Cook them 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re perfectly cooked, then transfer to a plate. You’ll love the garlicky, buttery aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Sauté the zucchini noodles
In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of butter and the prepared zucchini noodles. Toss gently and cook for just 2 to 3 minutes, making sure the noodles soften slightly but remain firm enough to have bite. This quick sauté keeps the zucchini noodles fresh and tender without turning mushy, which is exactly what you want to complement those plump shrimp.
Step 4: Combine and serve
Here’s where everything comes together: return the shrimp to the skillet and pour in the fresh lemon juice, tossing everything so the flavors meld into a harmonious blend of bright, buttery goodness. Give it a quick taste and add salt and pepper if needed to make sure each bite is balanced and vibrant. It’s a simple finish that elevates the dish to dinner perfection.
Step 5: Garnish and enjoy
Finally, transfer your shrimp and zucchini noodles to serving plates. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a splash of green and fresh herbal brightness. If you love a little extra indulgence, grate some Parmesan cheese on top—it melts slightly against the warm dish, adding a creamy, salty touch. Now, sit down and enjoy every delicious forkful of this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil not only brighten the dish visually but elevate the flavor with natural freshness. If you enjoy a slight tang, a light drizzle of extra lemon juice over the top right before serving can add a zesty punch that wakes up your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully on its own for a light meal, but if you want to expand the meal, consider serving with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or warm crusty bread to soak up any leftover garlic butter sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes make a colorful and healthy accompaniment, boosting both texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe in individual shallow bowls or on a bed of mashed cauliflower for extra creaminess. You can also skewer the shrimp and nestle them on top of the zucchini noodles for a playful presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eaten within 2 days. The zucchini noodles may release some moisture over time, so it’s a good idea to reheat gently to maintain texture.
Freezing
Shrimp and zucchini noodles don’t freeze well together because the noodles can become soggy after thawing. If you want to freeze, keep the shrimp and noodles separate. Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month; spiralized raw zucchini noodles freeze poorly due to their high water content.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low-medium heat to prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming mushy. Add a splash of olive oil or a little butter if needed, and toss carefully until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for best texture retention.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to prevent excess water during cooking. This helps them sear nicely and keep that perfect texture.
What if I don’t have a spiralizer for making zucchini noodles?
No worries! You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips or even cut the zucchini into thin ribbons with a knife. While not exactly noodles, they’ll still be delicious and soak up the flavors beautifully.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Definitely! The zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, and shrimp with garlic butter is perfectly keto-friendly, making this recipe a great fit for those watching carbs.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or Whole30 compliant?
Yes! Swap the butter for ghee or a quality dairy-free butter alternative to keep the luscious flavor while adhering to dairy-free or Whole30 guidelines.
How spicy is this recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the spice level to your liking. Leaving them out results in a mild, buttery dish, while adding them gives a gentle kick that complements the garlic and lemon perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe that makes it both comforting and refreshing. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and feels just right for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and experience how effortless it is to create a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter served atop tender zucchini noodles. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this recipe offers a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes with fresh herbs and optional Parmesan for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee for Whole30)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Zucchini Noodles
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini noodles: Use a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles from the zucchini. Place them on a paper towel and lightly sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit while you prepare the shrimp to ensure they don’t become soggy when cooked.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the zucchini noodles: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet, then add the zucchini noodles. Toss and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the noodles become tender but not soggy. This short cooking time keeps the noodles fresh and crisp.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles. Add the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together to blend the flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and enjoy: Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of richness if desired.
Notes
- For a Whole30-compliant version, substitute unsalted butter with ghee and omit Parmesan cheese.
- Use fresh garlic and fresh lemon juice to enhance flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles to maintain their texture.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat or omit for a mild flavor.
- This dish is naturally low-carb and gluten-free.
