Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp (25-Minutes)

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp is a light yet flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of zucchini, the bold taste of pesto, and the sweetness of perfectly cooked shrimp. This quick and easy meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” offer a crisp and refreshing texture, while the pesto adds a rich and herbaceous flavor that complements the succulent shrimp. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that will leave you feeling energized and content.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. The pesto can be made from scratch with fresh basil or bought pre-made for added convenience. You can also swap out the shrimp for another protein, like chicken or tofu, if you prefer. Regardless of how you make it, Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With only 25 minutes of cook time, this dish is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful and satisfying.

2. Low-Carb and Healthy

Zucchini noodles are a great low-carb alternative to pasta, making this recipe perfect for anyone following a keto or gluten-free diet.

3. Packed with Flavor

The homemade or store-bought pesto brings fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan together in a creamy sauce that elevates the dish.

4. Protein-Packed

The addition of shrimp provides a healthy source of protein, while adding a touch of sweetness that balances out the pesto.

5. Customizable

This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your preferences—swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even add extra veggies for a heartier meal.

Ingredients

• Zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Homemade or store-bought pesto
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein source.
• Different Protein: You can substitute shrimp with chicken breast, salmon, or even scallops for a different flavor.
• Nut-Free Pesto: If you have a nut allergy, make a pesto with sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether.
• Additional Veggies: Add some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to your zucchini noodles for extra color and nutrients.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

Spiralize the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 4: Toss the Zucchini Noodles

Add the zucchini noodles to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until tender but still firm. Avoid overcooking to keep the noodles crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the pesto to the pan and toss the zucchini noodles until evenly coated. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lemon juice if desired.

Step 6: Garnish

Serve the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Zucchini noodles cook quickly, so make sure to sauté them for just a few minutes to keep them al dente and avoid a mushy texture.
• Make Your Pesto: If you have the time, homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts adds a burst of flavor to this dish.
• Use Large Shrimp: For a more satisfying meal, choose large shrimp to ensure each bite is flavorful and filling.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: To prevent the zucchini noodles from sticking and getting soggy, use a non-stick pan when cooking them.

How to Serve

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp can be served as a light main course or paired with a side salad for a more substantial meal. It’s also a great option for meal prep—store individual portions in airtight containers and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The zucchini noodles may release some moisture over time, but the dish will still be delicious.

Freezing

While it’s not recommended to freeze zucchini noodles, you can freeze the shrimp and pesto sauce separately if desired. Reheat the shrimp in a pan and toss with freshly sautéed zucchini noodles when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat, simply sauté the zucchini noodles and shrimp in a pan for a few minutes, adding a bit more pesto if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of zucchini noodles?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta if you prefer, though it will add more carbs to the dish.

2. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

3. Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or salmon are all great alternatives that pair well with pesto.

4. How do I make the pesto if I don’t have basil?

You can use other herbs like spinach, arugula, or kale for a slightly different flavor in your pesto.

5. How long does it take to cook the shrimp?

Shrimp typically takes 2-3 minutes per side to cook, depending on their size. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.

6. Can I use pre-made zucchini noodles?

Yes, many grocery stores sell pre-spiralized zucchini noodles that save time and effort in the kitchen.

7. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, zucchini noodles are a great low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to traditional pasta.

8. Can I add extra vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrients.

9. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it or use a pinch of garlic powder for a milder flavor.

10. How can I make the pesto dairy-free?

To make the pesto dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh zucchini noodles, succulent shrimp, and vibrant pesto, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and light. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easily customizable—what’s not to love?

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