Garlic Butter Shrimp & Zoodles Recipe – Easy, Healthy

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal that fits right into a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Zoodles Recipe is a must-try. It’s a delightful combination of juicy, garlicky shrimp sautéed in a rich butter sauce, served over fresh zucchini noodles (aka zoodles). This dish is not only low in carbs but also high in protein and nutrients, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner that takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Zoodles (zucchini noodles) have become a popular pasta substitute for those looking to reduce carb intake. They offer a tender bite, fresh taste, and pair exceptionally well with seafood. The garlic butter elevates the dish with deep, savory notes while the lemon adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness. Let’s dive into this easy and elegant weeknight meal.

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🥦 Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Net Carbs: 4g

• Cholesterol: 185mg

• Sodium: 730mg

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⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

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🌍 Cuisine & 🍽️ Course

• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean

• Course: Main Course / Dinner

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🍽️ Servings

• Serves: 2 hearty portions (or 3 lighter servings)

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🍳 Equipment Needed

• Spiralizer or julienne peeler (for making zoodles)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Tongs

• Knife & cutting board

• Paper towels (to pat dry shrimp)

• Mixing bowls

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📝 Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

For the Zoodles:

• 2 large zucchini, spiralized

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, to taste

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zoodles

1. Wash the zucchini and spiralize using a spiralizer. You can also use a julienne peeler if you don’t have one.

2. Place the zoodles in a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

3. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the zoodles with a clean towel or paper towels to remove water. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sauté Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely in the pan.

2. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for about 1.5–2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

5. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium.

2. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.

3. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Stir to combine and simmer for 1 minute.

Step 4: Cook the Zoodles

1. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan and toss in the zoodles.

2. Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until warmed through and slightly tender (avoid overcooking, or they’ll become mushy).

3. Season lightly with salt and toss well to coat in the butter sauce.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.

2. Toss everything together to combine and warm through for 1 more minute.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.

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👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations

• Zoodle Texture: Don’t overcook! They should be slightly firm (“al dente”) for the best texture.

• Make it Dairy-Free: Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter.

• Add Veggies: Sautéed cherry tomatoes or mushrooms go great in this dish.

• Add Cheese: Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan or crumbled feta for a savory twist.

• Make Ahead: You can spiralize zucchini and prep shrimp a few hours in advance. Store separately and cook fresh.

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💡 Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Zoodles Recipe

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Perfect for anyone watching carbs.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.

• One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes, more flavor.

• Customizable – Swap zucchini with spaghetti squash or even shirataki noodles.

• Packed with Flavor – Garlic, butter, lemon, and tender shrimp are a dream combo.

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🥗 What to Serve With It

This dish is great on its own, but if you want to round out the meal:

• A fresh garden salad with olive oil vinaigrette

• Steamed asparagus or green beans

• Garlic bread (for non-low-carb eaters)

• A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until just warmed. Avoid microwaving zoodles, as they can become soggy.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re following a keto diet, want a gluten-free dinner, or simply crave a fast, delicious seafood dish, this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Zoodles Recipe checks all the boxes. The combination of bold garlic, creamy butter, and juicy shrimp over light and healthy zucchini noodles offers a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up at home in no time. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming.