One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

Cook shrimps and zucchini noodles in fresh garlic and lemon juice and top with finely chopped fresh herbs for a healthy, quick and easy lunch or dinner. This One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its refreshing flavors and simple preparation make it a standout option for anyone looking for a delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on health.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook, making it an ideal choice for a speedy meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs elevates the taste of shrimp and zucchini noodles to new heights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the shrimp and nutrients from zucchini, this recipe is low in carbs and full of essential vitamins.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as a main dish or alongside rice, this recipe adapts well to your meal style.
• One-Pan Cooking: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pan, letting you focus more on enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment can help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook shrimp and zucchini noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to chop vegetables quickly, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of ingredients enhance flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 20 large shrimps (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• salt and pepper

For the Zucchini Noodles

• 4 medium zucchini
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley

How to Make One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes

Add minced garlic along with red chili flakes.
Cook for 40-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet along with lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
1. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side until pink.
2. Flip shrimp and cook for another 3 minutes until fully cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet once done.

Step 4: Prepare Zucchini Noodles

In the same skillet with leftover oil and garlic, add zucchini noodles.
Cook on high heat for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
1. Return cooked shrimp to the pan or serve separately if preferred.

How to Serve One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a more filling option, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

For a Fresh Twist

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Adding extra parsley or basil can elevate the flavor profile.
• Sprinkle with Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese provides a salty contrast to the shrimp and zucchini.

Pair with a Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar complements the dish nicely.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed greens with lemon vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch.

Serve with Grains

• Quinoa: This nutritious grain is an excellent base to soak up the delicious garlic and lemon flavors.
• Brown Rice: For a heartier meal, serve your shrimp and zucchini over brown rice.

Add Some Spice

• Sriracha Drizzle: A light drizzle of sriracha can kick up the heat for those who enjoy spicy food.
• Lemon Zest: Grating fresh lemon zest on top adds brightness and enhances the citrus notes.

How to Perfect One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

To make sure your One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Ensure Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and zucchini makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Watch Cooking Time: Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery; aim for 6 minutes total.
• Use High Heat for Zucchini: Cooking zucchini noodles on high heat helps retain their texture while preventing sogginess.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to modify salt, pepper, or chili flakes based on your preference.
• Experiment with Other Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers or spinach for more nutrition and color.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking, as the noodles can become watery if left sitting.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

Pairing side dishes with One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic option is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrients while complementing the flavors of shrimp.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for an elegant side that pairs well.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that serves as a great base and absorbs flavors beautifully.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp dish.
6. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides healthy fats that balance the meal while adding richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Overcooking the Shrimp – Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough and rubbery. Aim for just 6 minutes total; they should be pink and opaque.
• Not Seasoning Enough – Underseasoned dishes can taste bland. Use salt, pepper, and lemon juice generously to enhance flavors.
• Ignoring the Garlic – Garlic can burn quickly, leading to bitterness. Cook it on medium heat and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
• Using Thick Zucchini Strips – Thick strips may not cook evenly. Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create thin noodles that cook quickly.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs – Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly. Don’t skip adding parsley or other herbs right before serving for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen up to 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.

What can I substitute for zucchini?

You can replace zucchini with spaghetti squash or other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers if preferred.

How can I customize One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles?

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for more nutrients and color!

Is this dish low carb?

Yes! One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is not only quick and easy but also healthy and full of flavor. This versatile dish allows for numerous customization options, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices. Give it a try today!