One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of shrimp and zucchini in a quick, easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this meal offers a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With vibrant garlic and zesty lemon juice, it stands out as a light yet satisfying choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 22 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with shrimp and zucchini, it’s low in carbs and high in nutrients.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides for an enhanced dining experience.
• Flavorful Profile: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with all cooking done in one pan, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles efficiently, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking shrimp and zucchini noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, enhancing both presentation and cooking time.

Ingredients

Cook shrimps and zucchini noodles in fresh garlic and lemon juice and top with finely chopped fresh herbs for a healthy, quick and easy lunch or dinner.

For the Shrimp:

• 20 large shrimps (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• salt and pepper

For the Zucchini:

• 4 medium zucchini
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley

How to Make One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Add minced garlic along with red chili flakes to the skillet. Cook for about 40-60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet along with lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through (approximately 6 minutes total). Once done, remove them from the skillet.

Step 4: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

In the same skillet, using the leftover oil and garlic, add spiralized zucchini noodles. Sauté on high heat for about 3-4 minutes until just tender.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Season the zucchini noodles with salt and pepper; mix well. Add back the cooked shrimp or serve separately on plates to enjoy this scrumptious dish!

How to Serve One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Cooked rice or quinoa adds a hearty base, making the dish more filling while complementing the flavors of shrimp and zucchini.

With Fresh Salad

• A light green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well and adds a refreshing crunch.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced avocado on top provides creaminess and healthy fats, balancing the dish perfectly.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and helps soak up the delicious garlic sauce.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

To make your One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles even better, follow these helpful tips for optimal results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and zucchini will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned options.
• Cook shrimp perfectly: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3 minutes per side.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to increase or decrease red chili flakes based on your spice preference for a customized heat level.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like dill or chives for unique flavor variations that can change the dish entirely.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that complements the flavors of garlic in the main dish. Toast it until golden for added crunch.

2. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a crunchy contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.

3. Roasted Bell Peppers
   Sweet roasted bell peppers bring vibrant color and sweetness, creating balance on your plate.

4. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice that soaks up any leftover sauce beautifully.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   The sweetness of grilled corn pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp and zucchini noodles for a summery feel.

6. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful medley of veggies stir-fried lightly in olive oil adds nutrition and vibrant color while complementing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes lead to unexpected results, especially when trying new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to be aware of while preparing One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles.

• Using Overcooked Shrimp: Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.
• Not Salting the Zucchini: Failing to season the zucchini noodles properly can lead to bland flavors. Sprinkle salt during cooking to enhance the taste.
• Ignoring Garlic Timing: Adding garlic too early can burn it, creating a bitter flavor. Sauté garlic just until fragrant for optimal taste.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs significantly elevate the dish’s flavor. Always add chopped parsley or other herbs at the end for freshness.
• Neglecting High Heat for Zoodles: Cooking zucchini noodles on low heat can make them soggy. Use high heat to keep them crisp and maintain their texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles that might help clarify your cooking process.

Can I use frozen shrimp for One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How do I make my zucchini noodles less watery?

To prevent watery zoodles, sprinkle salt on them before cooking and let sit for a few minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel before sautéing.

What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?

Chicken or turkey can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for an alternative protein option in One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions provided.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach or swap shrimp with chicken or turkey. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy a healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor!