Easy Sautéed Shrimp & Zucchini Noodles (Low-Carb Dinner)

In the world of high-performance nutrition, the “Zoodle” remains the “Gold Standard” for a pasta alternative that doesn’t sacrifice volume. This recipe pairs lean, succulent shrimp with hydrating zucchini for a meal rich in zinc and magnesium. From an expertise perspective, the secret to a successful zoodle dish is the “flash-sauté.” Zucchini is over 90% water; if cooked too long, it releases liquid and becomes mushy. By utilizing high heat and a short duration, we maintain a professional-grade al dente snap.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 Min
• Cook Time: 5 Min
• Total Time: 15 Min
• Yield: 2 Servings
• Calories: 240 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

The Foundation

• 1 lb Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined (Tail-on for presentation)
• 2 large Zucchini, spiralized into “noodles”
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Grass-fed Butter (The secret for a silky sauce)

The “Gold Standard” Aromatics

• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional kick)
• 1 Lemon, juice and zest
• 1/4 tsp Salt & 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

The Finishing Touch

• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

Preparation Steps:

1. The Professional “Sweat”

1. Spiralize zucchini and place noodles on a clean towel. Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt.
2. Technique: Let sit for 5 minutes, then pat dry. This draws out excess moisture before cooking, preventing a watery sauce.

2. High-Heat Sear

3. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Sauté for 2 minutes per side until opaque and golden. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Aromatic Flash

5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
6. Add the zucchini noodles. Toss constantly with tongs for only 1–2 minutes (The “Flash-Sauté”).

4. Emulsify

7. Add cooked shrimp back to the pan with lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
8. Toss for 30 seconds to emulsify the juices. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips:

• No Lids Allowed: Never cover the pan while cooking zucchini. Trapping steam will instantly turn your professional-grade noodles into a watery soup.
• Shrimp Geometry: Shrimp cook fast. If they form a “C” shape, they are perfectly done. If they curl into a tight “O,” they are overcooked and rubbery.