Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles

Spring is the perfect time to lighten up dinners without sacrificing flavor. This garlic butter shrimp with zucchini noodles brings together tender, juicy shrimp and fresh, crisp zucchini for a meal that feels both indulgent and refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that turns a regular weeknight into a little celebration of fresh flavors.

The combination of shrimp and noodles works beautifully here. The zucchini noodles soak up the garlicky butter sauce, while the shrimp adds a meaty, satisfying bite without weighing the dish down. Every forkful offers a balance of protein and veggies, making it a well-rounded option for a quick weeknight dinner.

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can add a splash of lemon for brightness, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat, or toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic lift. It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy spring meals, using seasonal produce to bring color and life to your plate.

For anyone pressed for time but still wanting a healthy, flavorful dinner, shrimp zucchini noodles are a dream come true. In under 30 minutes, you can have a vibrant, restaurant-worthy meal that feels light yet satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, this dish hits all the marks.

Why You’ll Love It

• Ready in a flash: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Light but satisfying: Shrimp zucchini noodles are low-carb and full of fresh veggies, yet the buttery garlic sauce makes every bite indulgent enough to feel like a treat.
• Perfect for spring meals: With bright zucchini noodles and succulent shrimp, it’s a refreshing option that fits beautifully into lighter, seasonal dinners.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors—add lemon zest, chili flakes, or your favorite herbs—to make it uniquely yours every time.
• Family-friendly crowd pleaser: Even picky eaters often love the combination of shrimp and noodles, making it a meal everyone can enjoy without extra fuss.

Ingredient List

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Zucchini Noodles

• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Ingredient Notes

• I always use large, fresh shrimp for this—it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Frozen works in a pinch, but fresh really elevates the dish.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens up the garlic butter sauce and keeps the shrimp zucchini noodles tasting fresh.
• Red pepper flakes are optional, but I like a little warmth—it adds depth without overpowering the spring vibes.
• For zucchini noodles, I use a spiralizer rather than pre-packaged noodles. It keeps them firm and prevents sogginess.
• I always go for unsalted butter in the sauce—it lets me control the seasoning perfectly.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely instead of steaming.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Pro tip: Let the shrimp sit for 5 minutes after seasoning. It helps the flavors stick and gives a slightly deeper taste when cooked.

---

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pro tip: Avoid overcooking! Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooked shrimp can get rubbery.

---

Step 3: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

1. While the shrimp cooks, heat 1 tsp olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and a pinch of salt.
3. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, tossing gently until they are slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Pro tip: Don’t cook zucchini noodles too long—they release water quickly and can become soggy.

---

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent the garlic from browning too much—it can turn bitter.

---

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet.
2. Gently toss in the zucchini noodles, making sure everything is coated with the garlic butter sauce.
3. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and give it one final toss.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—sometimes a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon brightens it perfectly.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – They go from perfectly tender to rubbery in seconds, so watch the heat closely.
• Keep zucchini noodles al dente – A quick sauté is all they need; overcooked noodles get watery.
• Use fresh garlic – Minced fresh garlic gives the sauce a bright, fragrant flavor that pre-minced jars can’t match.
• Cook shrimp in batches if needed – Crowding the pan can make them steam instead of sear.
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice at the end for the perfect balance.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Shrimp: You can use chicken or scallops if shrimp isn’t available—just adjust cooking time.
• Zucchini noodles: Try spaghetti squash or carrot noodles for a fun twist.
• Butter: Swap for olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter version.
• Garlic: Roasted garlic adds a mellow, sweet flavor if you prefer.
• Spice: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a smoky or spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving shrimp zucchini noodles with a simple side salad—it adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the garlicky shrimp.
• A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the buttery sauce.
• Pair with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the shrimp and brighten the meal.
• Top with grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of feta for extra richness and flavor.
• For a spring-ready dinner, serve alongside steamed asparagus or roasted cherry tomatoes—it keeps the plate colorful and seasonal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate promptly: Store leftover shrimp zucchini noodles in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp and zucchini.
• Avoid the microwave if possible: It can make zucchini watery and shrimp rubbery.
• Add a splash of olive oil or butter: This helps revive the sauce and keep the noodles flavorful.
• Do not freeze: Zucchini noodles release water when frozen, so the texture will suffer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely instead of steaming.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and zucchini noodles separately, but it’s best to combine them right before serving so the noodles don’t get soggy.

What can I use instead of zucchini noodles?

Spaghetti squash, carrot noodles, or even whole wheat pasta work well as substitutes, depending on your preference.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give it more heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil or avocado oil, and you’ll still get a rich, flavorful sauce.

How do I prevent zucchini noodles from getting watery?

Cook them quickly over medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. Tossing them gently and serving immediately helps maintain the perfect texture.

---

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! I love hearing your tips and tweaks too.