This Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini dish is quick, tasty, and perfect for a light meal! Juicy shrimp get a boost from garlic and fresh zucchini for a colorful plate.
I love how this dish can be whipped up in no time! Just sauté everything together, and you’re all set for a yummy dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🦐🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are fantastic here, but feel free to use medium or even smaller shrimp if that’s what you have. You can also substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu for a different twist!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of the show! If zucchini isn’t available, summer squash works well too. You could use spiralized carrots for a fun, colorful spin!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Just remember that fresh garlic packs a stronger punch!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice heat, but feel free to skip them or use less if you prefer milder flavors. You could also replace them with a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika for a different kick.
Butter: Instead of butter, you can use extra olive oil or vegan butter if you’re going for a dairy-free option. It’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but following a few simple steps helps achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet for searing shrimp quickly while keeping them juicy.
- When adding shrimp to the pan, make sure they are in a single layer—this helps them cook evenly.
- Watch them closely! They cook fast—about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
Don’t overcook them, or they could become rubbery! If they start curling up, they’re usually overdone. Trust your instincts and remove them from heat as soon as they look beautifully pink!
Garlic Shrimp With Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or spiralized into noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to have this flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear better. Then, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, you’re ready for the next step!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
5. Sauté the Zucchini:
Using the same skillet, add the zucchini noodles or slices. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are just tender yet still crisp. This keeps them vibrant and a little crunchy!
6. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet with the zucchini. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the chopped parsley. Toss everything together and warm through for about 1 minute. This helps to mix the flavors beautifully!
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately with optional grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor!
Enjoy this light, flavorful, and healthy meal that combines juicy shrimp with fresh, garlicky zucchini!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just remember to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the zucchini noodles and pre-cook the shrimp. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to a day, then reheat everything in a skillet together just before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries if zucchini isn’t available! You can substitute with spaghetti squash, yellow squash, or even use regular pasta for a heartier dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary with different ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat for the best texture, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
