Description
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp is a light yet flavorful dish that combines fresh zucchini, bold pesto, and perfectly cooked shrimp. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal quick meal for busy nights, offering a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta. The crisp zucchini noodles paired with rich pesto and succulent shrimp make for a delicious, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini noodles: Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the zucchini noodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the pan, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until tender but still firm.
- Combine and serve: Add pesto to the pan and toss the noodles until evenly coated. Return the shrimp to the pan and mix everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Customize: Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even add extra veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
- Pesto Options: You can make homemade pesto or use a store-bought one for convenience.
- Veggie Boost: Add roasted chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative or extra veggies for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired