This tasty dish pairs juicy shrimp with fresh zucchini, all coated in a lovely garlic sauce. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how the garlic gives it a nice kick, while the zucchini adds a twist. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰 Plus, it’s healthy and super easy to whip up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well here. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium ones are fine too. You can also swap out shrimp for other seafood like scallops or even chicken if you prefer.
Zucchini: I love using fresh zucchini for its mild flavor and great texture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash can make a nice substitute. You could also try spiralized carrots for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds wonderful flavor. If you’re out, you can use canola oil or avocado oil as alternatives. Both work well for sautéing and have a neutral taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for that pungent flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, though it won’t be as potent. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, skip them altogether or replace with a pinch of black pepper for just a hint of spice.
How Do I Sauté Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Sautéing shrimp may seem tricky, but here’s the secret to getting them just right: they cook quickly! Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
- Start with a hot skillet. The shrimp should sizzle immediately when added.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink.
- Flip them over to cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until fully opaque.
- Remove from heat once they’re cooked through to avoid overcooking.
By following these steps, you’ll have tender and juicy shrimp every time! Enjoy your garlic shrimp with zucchini! 🌟
Garlic Shrimp With Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or spiralized
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and healthy meal that you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the shrimp cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink. Then, flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced or spiralized zucchini. Sauté the zucchini for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender but still has some crispness. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini. Toss everything together gently. Then, add the lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring well to combine. Let it all warm through for another minute.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Garlic Shrimp With Zucchini immediately, garnished with extra parsley if you like. This dish is not only delicious but also colorful and nutritious!
Enjoy your meal! It’s a fantastic way to get a tasty dish on the table in no time. 😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp before cooking. The best way to thaw them is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
How Do I Adjust This Recipe for More or Fewer Servings?
No problem! You can easily scale the ingredients up or down. Just maintain the same ratio of shrimp to zucchini and adjust the other ingredients proportionally. For example, if you double the shrimp to 2 lbs, use 4 zucchinis, etc.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach can be excellent additions. Just make sure to sauté them until they’re tender before adding the shrimp back to the skillet to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating!