Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful, light, and healthy meal that bursts with flavor, this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles recipe is a total game-changer. It’s quick to whip up, combining juicy shrimp sautéed in a buttery lemon garlic sauce served over tender, fresh zucchini noodles. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner or a vibrant dish to impress your family, this recipe balances simplicity and taste perfectly, making it ideal for any weeknight feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want something fresh and tasty fast.
• Light yet satisfying: The zoodles keep this dish low-carb and gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Bold, vibrant flavors: The tangy lemon paired with aromatic garlic and creamy butter creates a mouthwatering combination.
• Easy to customize: You can swap in your favorite herbs, spices, or veggies to make it your own.
• Nutritious and fresh: Loaded with protein from shrimp and vitamins from zucchini, it’s both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, essential ingredients that come together to create a stunning dish. Each element enhances taste, texture, or color, making every bite a delight.

• Fresh shrimp: Opt for peeled, deveined shrimp for ease and the best flavor.
• Zucchini noodles (zoodles): These tender, spiralized veggies replace traditional pasta for a refreshing twist.
• Butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps create the luscious lemon garlic sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic delivers a robust aroma and punch.
• Lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemon brightens the dish with vibrant citrus notes.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it enhances flavor while keeping things light.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that elevates every ingredient and balances flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Finely chopped for a burst of green color and subtle herbal freshness.

Variations for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles

This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or flavor cravings without losing its signature goodness.

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat build-up.
• Swap the shrimp: Use scallops or chicken strips for different proteins while keeping the sauce consistent.
• Dairy-free version: Replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for those avoiding dairy.
• Vegetable medley: Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Herb variations: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or dill to create new flavor profiles.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing and patting dry the shrimp. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest, letting the sauce simmer gently to combine flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Zoodles

Add the zucchini noodles directly to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss gently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the zoodles soften slightly but retain a nice bite.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the luscious sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish, then remove from heat.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles

• Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook rapidly and become rubbery if left too long, so watch closely.
• Make fresh zoodles: Spiralize zucchini yourself or buy pre-spiralized, but always pat dry to avoid sogginess.
• Use fresh lemon: Bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the same bright, fresh flavor as fresh-squeezed juice and zest.
• Keep garlic fragrant: Sauté garlic on medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent bitterness from burning.
• Customize heat: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to meet your preferred spice level without overpowering the dish.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here, adding lovely color and a mild herbal note. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or a few lemon slices on the side for extra flair.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a light mixed green salad, crusty garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp and zoodles in shallow bowls with extra lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze. For an elegant touch, plate the zoodles underneath and nestle the shrimp on top, garnished with herbs and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 2 days, retaining most of its flavors and texture.

Freezing

Because zoodles are delicate, freezing is not recommended as they tend to become watery and lose texture. However, you can freeze cooked shrimp without noodles for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp and turning the zoodles mushy. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of zoodles?

Absolutely, regular pasta works fine if you prefer a more traditional base, though zoodles keep it lighter and low-carb.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe typically serves 2 to 3 people, depending on portion size and appetite.

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can season and peel the shrimp in advance but it’s best to cook them just before serving for maximum freshness.

What’s the best way to spiralize zucchini?

Use a handheld or countertop spiralizer to create even, noodle-like strands. If you don’t have one, a vegetable peeler can create thin strips as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles recipe—simple ingredients coming together in a fresh, flavorful way that never feels heavy or complicated. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Give it a try and enjoy every bite of brightness, buttery richness, and wholesome goodness packed in every forkful.

Related Posts

• How to Make Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Cheese
• Why Loaded Carne Asada Fries with Nacho Dust Rock
• Why Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Delight

Print