Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a fresh, vibrant dish that delivers bold flavor while keeping things light and healthy. This low-carb meal combines tender shrimp, spiralized zucchini noodles, and a bright lemon garlic sauce that comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without feeling heavy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This zucchini noodle shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. The shrimp cook quickly while the lemon garlic sauce adds brightness and depth.
It’s also incredibly versatile and family-friendly. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a fresh seafood dinner, this shrimp zoodles recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini
1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp butter or ghee
1 lemon, juice and zest
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchini into noodles and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute without stirring so the bottom develops a slight crisp.
- Add the chopped garlic and stir the shrimp for another 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
- Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, add butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes while stirring to combine the flavors.
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Add the zucchini noodles and toss gently for about 30 seconds to warm them.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together for another minute.
- Serve immediately. This Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Garlic Shrimp tastes best fresh from the pan.
Tips & Tricks
Avoid overcooking zucchini noodles. They should remain slightly crisp to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can buy pre-spiralized zucchini noodles from most grocery stores.
For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or add a touch of lemon zest just before serving.
Large shrimp work best because they stay juicy and tender during cooking.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean Inspired
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly, high protein
Notes
You can replace shrimp with grilled chicken or salmon if preferred.
Serve this dish with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a more filling meal.
For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Nutrition (Approximate)
Calories: 320
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fat: 16 g
FAQ
Can I make zucchini pasta with shrimp ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. However, you can prepare the zucchini noodles and shrimp separately ahead of time and cook everything together just before serving.
How do I prevent zucchini noodles from becoming watery?
Do not overcook them. Toss them in the sauce briefly, just enough to warm them.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, zucchini noodles are low in carbs, making this shrimp zoodles recipe ideal for keto or low-carb diets.
What can I serve with lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodles?
A fresh salad, roasted asparagus, or grilled vegetables pair beautifully with this dish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Avoid microwaving for too long, as zucchini noodles may release excess water.
Freezing is not recommended because zucchini noodles lose their texture after thawing.
Similar Recipes
Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchini into noodles and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute without stirring so the bottom develops a slight crisp.
- Add the chopped garlic and stir the shrimp for another 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
- Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, add butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes while stirring to combine the flavors.
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Add the zucchini noodles and toss gently for about 30 seconds to warm them.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together for another minute.
- Serve immediately. This Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Garlic Shrimp tastes best fresh from the pan.
Notes
Conclusion
Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that proves healthy cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With juicy shrimp, bright citrus, and fresh herbs, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner or simply a fresh seafood recipe, this dish will quickly become a favorite.