Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodle Bliss in 20 Minutes

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodle Bliss in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 4, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodles! This dish captures the essence of bright, fresh flavors that make your taste buds dance. Picture this: succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, all tossed with tender zucchini noodles that are light yet satisfying. I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those hot summer nights when I craved something refreshing but still filling. I took a leap and combined my love for shrimp with the vibrant crunch of zucchini, and wow, it was love at first bite! Now, it’s a go-to dinner in my house, especially during those busy weekdays. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes! Trust me, once you try this lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!

lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up this delightful lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb shrimp – Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen can work too if that’s what you have on hand.
2 medium zucchinis – Spiralize these beauties into noodles! Zucchini is light and absorbs flavors wonderfully, making it the perfect pasta substitute.
4 cloves garlic – Minced garlic adds that aromatic punch! Don’t shy away from garlic; it’s where the magic happens.
2 tablespoons olive oil – This will help sauté your garlic and shrimp, adding richness and flavor.
1 lemon – You’ll need the juice for that zesty brightness, so roll it on the counter before cutting to release those juices!
Salt and pepper – Season to taste, but go easy on the salt since shrimp can be naturally salty.
Fresh parsley – Chopped for garnish, it adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness to your dish!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create something truly special!

How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodle

Now that you have all the fresh ingredients gathered, it’s time to bring this lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish to life! Trust me, it’s super simple and absolutely rewarding. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. **Heat the Olive Oil:** Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke – this means it’s ready for the garlic!

2. **Sauté the Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful here; you don’t want it to burn, or it can get bitter. Just keep stirring!

3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Next, toss in your pound of shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally until they turn pink and opaque. This is when you’ll really start to smell that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!

4. **Add the Zucchini Noodles:** Once the shrimp is cooked, gently stir in the spiralized zucchini noodles. Cook them for just 2-3 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of bite. If you overcook them, they’ll get mushy!

5. **Finish with Lemon Juice:** Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and zucchini noodles. This brightens everything up and brings the dish together beautifully. Give it a good toss to coat everything evenly.

6. **Season to Taste:** Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, shrimp can be a bit salty on their own, so taste as you go!

7. **Garnish and Serve:** Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that gorgeous pop of color and serve immediately. Enjoy the light, zesty flavors of your lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Fresh Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a vibrant taste that brightens your palate and makes every bite a delight.
Healthy Ingredients: With shrimp and zucchini noodles, you’re getting a nutritious meal that’s packed with protein and veggies without the heavy carbs.
Low Calorie: At only 250 calories per serving, this recipe fits perfectly into a low-calorie diet while still being filling and satisfying.

Tips for Success

To elevate your lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish, here are some pro tips that’ll guarantee perfect results every time:

Choose Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp. It makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If frozen is all you have, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Keep an eye on those zucchini noodles! They should be tender yet still have a slight crunch. Overcooking can lead to mushy noodles, which you definitely want to avoid.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it straight from the pan for the best texture and flavor. Trust me, you want that vibrant, zesty goodness!

Nutritional Information

When you savor this lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish, you can feel good about what you’re eating! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 250
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 200mg

These numbers are estimates, but they reflect how this dish combines deliciousness with healthiness. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating your body right!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodle dish? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor, but frozen works just fine in a pinch.
What if I don’t have a spiralizer? No problem! You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips of zucchini. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still taste delicious!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within a day or two, but they can last up to three days. Just reheat on the stove to keep those flavors vibrant!
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra color and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time based on what you add.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes! It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, just remember to store the zucchini noodles separately to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal truly unforgettable, consider pairing your lemon garlic shrimp zucchini noodles with a few delightful accompaniments! A light and crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the dish. If you’re in the mood for a bit more, some warm, crusty garlic bread would be a fantastic addition to soak up all those zesty flavors. For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve it alongside a chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, that beautifully complements the shrimp and lemon. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dinner to another level!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this lemon garlic chicken fillet recipe or this juicy air fryer chicken fillet recipe!