This Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini dish is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy shrimp cooked in garlic butter with tender zucchini keep things light and flavorful.
You won’t believe how fast it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights! I love serving it over rice or pasta for a filling dinner that still feels fresh! 🍤🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe. If unavailable, you can use medium or even frozen shrimp—just be sure to thaw them properly. Some people prefer shrimp with the shell on for extra flavor, so that’s an option too!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great, but if you’re looking for a substitute, yellow squash or bell peppers can add a nice crunch and flavor. For a lower-carb option, consider using spaghetti squash or other vegetables like carrots.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but for a richer taste, butter works wonderfully too! You can also use coconut oil or avocado oil depending on your preference and dietary needs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove). Just remember it’s not as strong, so adjust based on your taste!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, so let’s focus on getting it just right! You want them juicy, not rubbery. Here’s how:
- Make sure your shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels—this helps them sear nicely.
- Heat your skillet before adding olive oil or butter for better browning. Medium-high heat is usually perfect.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and curl up when done, which is a great visual cue!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary, so they get a nice sear!
With these tips, your shrimp will be cooked perfectly, adding a burst of flavor to your dish!
Garlic Shrimp With Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ribbons or thin strips
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 5 minutes of cooking time, so you can whip up this meal in less than 20 minutes! Quick, easy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
First things first! Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season them with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and oregano or Italian seasoning to add some flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil or butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Cook the Zucchini:
Now it’s time for the zucchini! Add the sliced zucchini ribbons into the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything together gently. Let it cook for an additional minute to warm through and combine the flavors.
6. Serve Up the Dish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and squeeze some lemon juice for an extra zing if you like. Serve immediately, and enjoy it on its own or alongside rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to impress, all while being healthy and ready in no time. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quick thaw. Remember to pat them dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can use yellow squash, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. For a lower-carb option, try using spiralized carrots or spaghetti squash!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep the shrimp and zucchini from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during cooking or add a few dashes of hot sauce when serving. You can also serve it with sliced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
