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- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 lemon, zested and juiced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish These main ingredients create a fresh and light dish. Zucchinis serve as a great low-carb base. Shrimp adds protein and a lovely texture. Garlic gives a strong, tasty punch. Lemon juice brightens the whole dish, making it vibrant. - A pinch of smoked paprika - Fresh basil or oregano for herbs - Cherry tomatoes for sweetness - Grated Parmesan for a cheesy touch Adding these extra flavors can enhance your meal. Smoked paprika gives depth, while herbs add freshness. Cherry tomatoes bring a sweet burst, and cheese adds creaminess. - Choose firm zucchinis without soft spots. Fresh zucchinis have a bright color. - Look for shrimp that is firm and smells fresh. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy odor. - Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Dried garlic lacks the same punch. - Opt for a fresh lemon. A bright yellow lemon gives the best juice and zest. Selecting high-quality ingredients makes a big difference in taste. Freshness leads to better results, so keep this in mind when shopping. First, take your two zucchinis. Grab a spiralizer and start turning the zucchinis into zoodles. Aim for thin strands. This makes the dish light and fun. After spiralizing, place the zoodles in a colander. Let them sit for a bit. This helps drain extra water. A dry zoodle means a better dish! Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil. Season your one pound of shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Put the shrimp in the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, take the shrimp out and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in four cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant, but keep an eye on it! Burnt garlic can ruin your dish. Now, add the zoodles to the skillet with the garlic. Toss gently for 2-3 minutes. The zoodles should soften but still have some crunch. Finally, return the shrimp to the skillet. Pour in the lemon zest and juice. Gently toss everything together. Let it cook for one more minute. This helps the flavors mix well. To keep your zoodles crisp, drain them after spiralizing. Use a colander and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps remove extra water. You can also pat them dry with a towel. Cooking them for only 2-3 minutes in the skillet will keep them crunchy. If you overcook them, they'll turn mushy. Cook your shrimp just right. Start with a hot skillet and add the shrimp in a single layer. They need about 2-3 minutes on each side. When they turn pink and opaque, they are done. If you overcook shrimp, they become rubbery and tough. Always check for that perfect pink color. To boost flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. A splash of white wine can also enhance the dish. Pairing zoodles with a side salad adds texture and freshness. You can even serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices. If you like heat, sprinkle more red pepper flakes on top for a nice kick. {{image_4}} If you want to keep it low-carb, swap zoodles for other veggies. Try using spaghetti squash. It gives a similar texture. You can also use cauliflower rice for a grain-free option. Both add great flavor without the carbs. You can add more veggies to your dish for extra nutrients. Bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes work well. Just chop them up and sauté them with the garlic. This adds color and makes the meal healthier. Want a kick? Add more heat with jalapeños or chili paste. You could also mix in sriracha for a spicy twist. Just adjust the amount to fit your taste. This makes the dish exciting and fun! To keep your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing. This helps prevent steam build-up, which can make the zoodles soggy. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to help keep the zoodles moist. Stir gently while heating for about 3-5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the zoodles mushy. If you want to freeze your zoodles, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and zoodles separately. Cook the shrimp and let them cool. Place them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. For zoodles, spiralize and blanch them in boiling water for one minute before freezing. This method helps keep their texture. You can freeze both for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the shrimp tender. After thawing, peel and devein them if needed. Then, you can follow the recipe as usual. You can make zoodles without a spiralizer by using a vegetable peeler. Simply peel long strips of zucchini until you reach the seeds in the center. You can also use a box grater. Grate the zucchini to get thin, noodle-like strands. Both methods work well for this dish. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles pair well with several sides. Here are a few ideas: - A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Garlic bread for a crunchy texture - Quinoa or brown rice for a filling option - Grilled vegetables for extra flavor These sides enhance the meal while keeping it light and tasty. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles are simple and tasty. We explored key ingredients, tips for great cooking, and easy variations. You learned how to spiralize zucchini and cook shrimp right. I shared ways to prevent soggy zoodles and enhance flavor. This dish is easy to store and reheat, making it perfect for meal prep. Try it with your favorite sides or add extra veggies for more nutrition. Enjoy the bright flavors of this dish and let it brighten up your meals!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles

Enjoy a delightful and healthy meal with this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zoodles recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish featuring spiralized zucchini and succulent shrimp, all enhanced by zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a quick dinner or a light lunch, this recipe is sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your weeknight meals with this tasty twist on traditional pasta!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zoodles: Start by spiralizing the zucchinis using a spiralizer to create your zoodles. Once done, place them in a colander and let them drain to remove excess moisture, which will help prevent sogginess in the dish.

    Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil, sautéing for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful to monitor the garlic closely to prevent burning, which can turn it bitter.

        Add the Zoodles: Add the spiralized zucchini (zoodles) to the skillet with the garlic. Toss gently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the zoodles to soften slightly while still maintaining some crunch.

          Combine Ingredients: Reintroduce the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the zoodles. Pour in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, then gently toss everything together until well incorporated. Cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld.

            Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and if necessary, adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

              Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 2

                - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the shrimp and zoodles. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty squeeze if desired.