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If you’re craving a tasty and healthy dish, you’re in for a treat! Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles packs flavor without the carbs. This simple recipe uses fresh shrimp and zucchini noodles for a quick meal that feels special. In just a few easy steps, you can create a dish that impresses. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make this flavorful delight together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Twist: Using zoodles instead of pasta adds a nutritious element to the dish while keeping it low-carb.
- Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce is rich and aromatic, elevating the shrimp and zoodles to a new level.
- Customizable: This recipe allows you to adjust the spice level and add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles, you need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 medium zucchinis (zoodles)
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon slices for garnish
These ingredients blend together to create a dish that is both fresh and flavorful. The zoodles serve as a light base, while the shrimp adds protein and a satisfying taste. The garlic and butter bring richness, and the red pepper flakes add a gentle kick. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Using quality ingredients elevates this dish. Fresh zucchinis yield the best zoodles. Make sure your shrimp is fresh or properly thawed. Fresh garlic also enhances the flavor, giving a strong aroma as it cooks. With these ingredients, you’ll create a delightful meal that’s quick to prepare and utterly delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Zoodles
To start, you need to spiralize the zucchinis. This tool makes long, curly strands. Hold the zucchini firmly and twist it against the blade. You will get beautiful zoodles. Once you have enough zoodles, set them aside in a bowl. This way, they are ready when you need them.
Cooking the Shrimp
Now, let’s move to the shrimp. Grab a large skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The butter should foam but not brown. Next, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir this mix for 1-2 minutes. You want the garlic to smell great, but do not let it burn.
Once the garlic is fragrant, it’s time for the shrimp. Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They will change from gray to pink and opaque when done.
Combining Ingredients
After the shrimp is ready, add in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Mix everything well in the skillet. The butter will melt, making a rich sauce.
Now, it’s time for the zoodles. Toss them into the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want the zoodles to be tender but still crunchy. This adds a nice texture to your dish.
Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Butter Flavor
Fresh garlic is a must for great taste. It adds a strong and rich flavor. Use four cloves for the best result. Mince it well to release its oils. This helps the garlic mix well with the butter.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to fit your taste. If you love spice, add more flakes. If you prefer mild dishes, use less. Start with one teaspoon, then taste. You can always add more if you want heat.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters when serving. Use a large pasta bowl for a nice look. This makes the dish feel special. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. The green and yellow colors pop and invite guests.
Pair the dish with simple sides. A crisp green salad works well. You can also serve garlic bread for a treat. This adds a comforting touch to your meal. Enjoy your flavorful delight with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis yield the best texture and flavor for zoodles. Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis for optimal results.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
- Adjust Spiciness to Taste: Red pepper flakes can be adjusted according to your spice preference. Start with less and add more if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Make It a Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently to enjoy a quick meal on busy days.

Variations
Alternative Vegetables
When you want to switch things up, try using other low-carb noodles. Some great options are spaghetti squash or kelp noodles. They each have a unique taste and texture. You can spiralize these or use them as-is for your dish.
For a colorful twist, add extra veggies. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while spinach provides a pop of green. Toss them in at the same time as the zoodles. This adds more flavor and nutrients to your meal.
Adjusting Ingredients
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can easily swap it out. Use chicken or tofu instead. Chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Tofu works well if you need a plant-based option. Just sauté it until golden brown.
You can also make this dish dairy-free. Look for vegan butter in stores. It will give you the same creamy flavor without the dairy. Just replace the unsalted butter with your chosen vegan alternative, and you’re good to go!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles fresh, store leftovers right. Place them in airtight containers. This keeps moisture out and prevents odors from mixing. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it. Store in the fridge for up to two days.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam the zoodles. This keeps them from getting mushy. Stir the mix gently until it’s hot. Avoid using the microwave, as it can overcook the zoodles quickly. Enjoy your tasty dish again without losing flavor!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles?
This dish is quick and easy. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. So, you can make it in just 20 minutes! You can enjoy this tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just remember to thaw them first. The best way is to put them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, put them in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Make sure to drain and pat them dry before cooking. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and stay juicy.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles?
This dish is great on its own, but you can add some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:
– Garlic bread for a crunchy bite
– A fresh green salad for a light touch
– Steamed broccoli for extra veggies
– A glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink
These sides will complement the flavors of the shrimp scampi zoodles perfectly. Enjoy your meal!
In this post, we explored the vibrant flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles. You learned about key ingredients, like fresh zucchini and shrimp, and how to prepare them. We also shared tips for perfecting the dish and ideas for variations. Ultimately, this meal is quick, healthy, and fun to make. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try new twists, you’ll enjoy a tasty dish. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly and reheat them just right for the best experience. Happy cookin
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Zoodles
A delicious and healthy twist on classic shrimp scampi using zucchini noodles.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 350 kcal
- 2 medium zucchinis (zoodles)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- as needed lemon slices for garnish
Begin by spiralizing the zucchinis to make zoodles. Set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Stir in the remaining butter and lemon juice, mixing everything together until well combined.
Add the zoodles to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are slightly tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve in a large pasta bowl and garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
Keyword garlic butter, healthy, quick meal, shrimp, zoodles
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