This Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini dish is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy shrimp cook up in a garlic butter sauce, and the zucchini adds a fresh crunch that makes every bite delightful.
I love how simple this recipe is—just sauté shrimp and zucchini together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something healthy and delicious on my plate! 🍤🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are best for this dish, but you can use frozen shrimp as well—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. If you’re not a shrimp fan, try chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces or even tofu for a veggie option.
Zucchini: I love using zucchini for its mild flavor and crunch. If zucchini is not available, yellow squash can be a great alternative. If you prefer something different, try using broccoli or bell peppers instead.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but you’d need about 1/8 teaspoon to replace each clove—which won’t have the same strong taste. I personally prefer adding more garlic for extra kick!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a good heat, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. If you don’t have red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper or even some chopped fresh chili can give a nice kick too.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar or a dash of lemon zest can add a similar zing!
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be quick, and you want them to stay juicy. Here’s how to get it right every time:
- Start with a hot skillet. Heat your oil and butter until they shimmer before adding garlic to avoid burning it.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and better searing.
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp only need about 4-6 minutes total. They turn pink and opaque when ready, and once they curl slightly, they’re done.
Once cooked, don’t forget to remove them from the heat immediately to prevent that rubbery texture. It’s best to just warm them when added back with the zucchini.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or spiralized
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10-12 minutes to cook, for a total of about 20-25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Once they’re clean, gently pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the shrimp to season them evenly—this will add some great flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Wait until the butter is fully melted and starts to bubble a bit when it’s ready.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Now it’s time to add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté these together for about 30 seconds. You want to smell the garlic getting fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn because burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, laying them in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and have a slight golden color. Then, flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced zucchini and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of a crunch. Season them with salt and pepper to taste while they cook.
6. Combine the Shrimp and Zucchini:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the zucchini. Toss them together and cook for just another minute to ensure everything is hot and the flavors meld nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the top if you like. The lemon adds a lovely brightness to the dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini immediately. You can garnish with extra parsley and maybe a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before you start cooking. The best way to do this is to let them sit in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for quicker thawing.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! You can substitute zucchini with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also try serving it with a spicy sauce on the side for an extra kick!
