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- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juiced and zested - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles

Discover the vibrant and healthy Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Zoodles, a delicious twist on traditional pasta that combines succulent shrimp and spiralized zucchini noodles. This low-carb, gluten-free dish is packed with flavor and comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With bright lemon and garlic notes, garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan, it's a meal that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy a nutritious and satisfying dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is to eat!

Ingredients
  

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:

    Begin by spiralizing the zucchinis using a spiralizer to create zoodles. Sprinkle a light coating of salt over the zoodles and place them in a colander. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to help release excess moisture. Afterward, pat the zoodles dry with a paper towel to ensure they remain firm during cooking.

      Cook the Garlic:

        Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil starts to shimmer, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for approximately 30 seconds until it is fragrant—be cautious not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.

          Add the Shrimp:

            Incorporate the shrimp into the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a kick. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.

              Introduce Lemon Juice and Zoodles:

                Pour the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest into the skillet, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Gently fold in the spiralized zucchini noodles, tossing them with the shrimp and lemon-garlic sauce for roughly 2-3 minutes. You want the zoodles to be slightly softened yet still retain a bit of crunch (al dente).

                  Serve the Dish:

                    Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the dish hot, optionally topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. Enjoy your vibrant and zesty meal!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 20 mins | 4 servings

                        Presentation Tips: Consider serving the zoodles and shrimp in shallow bowls, topping each serving with the parsley and Parmesan for an attractive display. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch and a chance for diners to adjust the citrus flavor to their liking.