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Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Noodles Recipe Easy Healthy Dinner

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A quick, easy, and healthy dinner featuring garlic butter shrimp and tender zucchini noodles, perfect for busy weeknights and low-carb diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 3 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups spiralized noodles)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchinis. Using a spiralizer, create about 4 cups of zucchini noodles. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess moisture.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes on one side. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Lower heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Once melted and bubbling, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet. Gently toss and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until noodles are just tender but still have a slight bite.
  6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another minute to warm through.
  7. Remove skillet from heat. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Do not overcook zucchini noodles to avoid mushiness; sauté only 2-3 minutes. Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better sear. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. If zucchini noodles release too much water, drain before adding shrimp back. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking shrimp to prevent steaming. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, zucchini noodles, low-carb dinner, healthy shrimp recipe, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, gluten-free, keto friendly