Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
This Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that brings all the best parts of coastal cooking to your table in just 25 minutes. Tender shrimp are sautéed in olive oil with garlic, shallots, and a splash of lemon for brightness. The zucchini noodles soak up every bit of the garlicky sauce, making it a healthy yet satisfying alternative to pasta. It’s a quick weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy—vibrant, simple, and naturally low-carb.
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3–4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (“zoodles”)
Sauce and Seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 shallot, finely minced
½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus more to taste)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Garnish (Optional)
Lemon zest
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Zoodles:
Spiralize the zucchinis and lightly pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and shallot for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth or wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce.
Add Lemon and Shrimp:
Stir in the lemon juice, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
Add the Zucchini Noodles:
Add the zoodles directly into the skillet and toss for 2–3 minutes until just tender but not mushy.
Finish and Serve:
Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and top with lemon zest and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook fast—once they turn pink and curl slightly, remove them to avoid a rubbery texture.
Dry the zoodles: Too much moisture from zucchini can water down the sauce. Press them gently with a paper towel before adding to the skillet.
Add zoodles at the end: Cooking them briefly keeps them firm and noodle-like.
Adjust the sauce consistency: If it reduces too much, add a splash of broth or a drizzle more olive oil.
For extra richness: Add a teaspoon of butter at the end to give the sauce a silky finish.
Variations
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Zoodles:
Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Spicy Mediterranean Version:
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa paste for a gentle kick.
Greek-Inspired Twist:
Add crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.
Pesto Shrimp Zoodles:
Replace the lemon and garlic sauce with a few spoonfuls of basil pesto for a fresh, herby variation.
Vegan Alternative:
Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or marinated tofu and use vegetable broth.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
Q: How do I prevent watery zoodles?
Salt them lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out extra liquid before cooking.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep the zoodles and sauce separately, but cook the shrimp fresh to keep them tender.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
It’s perfect on its own, but pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty Mediterranean bread.
Q: Can I substitute zucchini?
Yes, try spiralized carrots, cucumber, or spaghetti squash for a similar effect.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 310
Protein: 34g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles is light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It’s everything you want in a quick, healthy meal—garlicky shrimp, zesty lemon, and tender zucchini in one skillet. The recipe comes together fast and feels elegant without effort. Whether you’re eating clean or just craving something vibrant and satisfying, this dish delivers every time—simple, wholesome, and full of Mediterranean flair.