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Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into zoodles (about 6–7 cups)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  • Spiralize the zucchini. Trim the ends and spiralize into noodles. If your zoodles are very wet, pat them with paper towels. This helps prevent a watery skillet later.
  • Season the shrimp. Pat them dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
  • Preheat the pan. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When the butter foams, add the shrimp in a single layer.
  • Sear the shrimp. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
  • Sauté the garlic. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.
  • Deglaze the pan. Pour in the white wine or broth. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Add butter and lemon. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon zest, and 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Toss in the zoodles. Add the zucchini noodles and toss to coat. Cook 1–3 minutes, just until they begin to soften but still have a little bite. Avoid overcooking.
  • Return the shrimp. Add the shrimp and any juices back to the pan. Toss with parsley. Warm through for 30–60 seconds.
  • Finish and serve. Plate immediately. Top with extra parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and Parmesan if you like. Serve hot.