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Fresh Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

fresh shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles - featured image

A light and flavorful shrimp scampi served over zucchini noodles, perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium to large size)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons), plus zest
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Pinch of salt (for zucchini noodles)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini noodles: Wash and trim the ends off the zucchinis. Spiralize them into noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler. Place the noodles in a large bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside, keeping warm.
  3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Scrape up browned bits from the pan. Let liquid reduce by half (2-3 minutes). Lower heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted. Add lemon zest.
  4. Sauté the zucchini noodles: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini noodles and cook 3-5 minutes, tossing gently until tender but still slightly crunchy. Season lightly with salt.
  5. Combine everything: Return shrimp to the sauce pan and toss to coat. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Plate zucchini noodles and spoon shrimp scampi sauce over the top.
  6. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp with a mild ocean scent to avoid fishy flavor. Smaller, firmer zucchinis work best to prevent watery noodles. Squeeze out moisture from zucchini noodles to avoid sogginess. Cook shrimp quickly to avoid rubbery texture. Substitute chicken broth for white wine if avoiding alcohol. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet and avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, zucchini noodles, low-carb, light meal, quick dinner, healthy, gluten-free, keto-friendly