Here’s a high-protein recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles, a light yet satisfying dish that’s packed with flavour and nutrients. This recipe is a perfect low-carb, high-protein option that makes a quick and easy meal for lunch or dinner. The combination of juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and fresh zucchini noodles creates a refreshing, wholesome dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Why Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?
This dish is ideal for anyone looking to boost their protein intake without the added carbs from traditional pasta. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while zucchini noodles (or "zoodles") offer a low-calorie, low-carb alternative to pasta. The zesty lemon and garlic complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a mouth-watering meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.
Key Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for those who want to support muscle growth or maintain a healthy weight.
- Low in Carbs: Zucchini noodles provide a light and low-carb base, keeping the dish low in calories but high in nutrition.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic, lemon, and zucchini are loaded with antioxidants that support overall health.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is great for busy weeknights or when you need a healthy meal in a pinch—it’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Zoodles: Zucchini noodles cook very quickly and can become watery if overcooked. Keep them al dente for the best texture.
- Customise the Flavours: For an added kick, you can sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes or squeeze more lemon juice just before serving.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for added colour, nutrition, and variety.
- Make It Creamy: If you want a richer dish, stir in a tablespoon of cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy lemon sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles as a standalone dish, or pair it with a light side like a fresh green salad.
- You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread if you want a more filling meal, or add a serving of quinoa or brown rice if you’re looking for extra carbs.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Your Diet
- High-Protein: Shrimp provides an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish perfect for muscle recovery, weight management, or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
- Low-Carb: The use of zucchini noodles instead of pasta keeps this dish low in carbs and calories, making it ideal for those following low-carb or keto diets.
- Quick and Healthy: This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something healthy but don’t have much time to cook. It’s nutrient-dense, flavourful, and can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Nutritional Content (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220–260 kcal
- Protein: 25–30 g
- Carbohydrates: 8–12 g
- Sugars: 4–5 g
- Fibre: 3 g
- Fat: 10–12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2–3 g
- Sodium: 500–600 mg (depending on the shrimp and added salt)
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants from the lemon, zucchini, and garlic.
Ingredients
- 450g shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralised into noodles 🥒
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon 🍋
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) 🌶️
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness) 🧈
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional) 🧀
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: If you haven’t already spiralised the zucchinis, use a spiraliser to create long, thin noodles. If you don’t have a spiraliser, you can use a vegetable peeler to make thin ribbons or use a knife to cut the zucchini into thin strips. Set the zoodles aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil (and butter if using) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, allowing the flavours to combine for another minute.
- Toss the Zoodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss them in the lemon garlic sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the zoodles are just tender but still slightly crisp. You don’t want them to get mushy, so keep an eye on them!
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the zoodles and sauce. Cook for another minute to warm everything through and ensure the shrimp are coated with the lemon garlic sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. For extra flavour, you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy this light, protein-packed meal!
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