Go Back

Shrimp Zucchini Pasta

This dish transforms zucchini into a pasta-like vehicle, soaking up bright flavors of garlic and lemon while being topped with sweet, briny shrimp. It features tender, slightly crisp zucchini noodles and seared shrimp, creating a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying vegetable-forward meal that mimics traditional pasta textures.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb small shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 medium zucchini spiralized or julienned
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spiralizer or julienne peeler
  • Mixing bowl
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create long, thin zucchini strips. Place the noodles in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and set aside to draw out moisture for 10 minutes.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked shrimp to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender but still slightly crisp and vibrant green.
  6. Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, then add the lemon zest and juice. Gently toss everything together, cooking for about 1 minute to combine flavors and warm the shrimp.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Serve immediately on warm plates, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this veggie-packed pasta alternative!