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Quick High-Protein Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe with Zucchini Noodles for Easy Healthy Meals

high-protein lemon garlic shrimp - featured image

A quick, healthy, and protein-packed shrimp dish paired with crisp zucchini noodles and a bright lemon garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and light but satisfying meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients (5 minutes): Rinse and spiralize the zucchinis. Mince the garlic cloves. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Set everything within reach before cooking.
  2. Cook the Shrimp (6-8 minutes): Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Zucchini Noodles (3-4 minutes): In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in spiralized zucchini noodles, season lightly with salt, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until warmed but still crisp.
  4. Combine and Finish (2 minutes): Return shrimp to skillet with zucchini noodles. Add lemon juice and butter, stirring gently to coat. Cook for 1 minute until butter melts and sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to get a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Cook zucchini noodles quickly to keep them crisp and avoid sogginess. Use fresh garlic and watch it closely to prevent burning. Leftovers reheat best in a skillet over medium heat to avoid soggy noodles.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp recipe, lemon garlic shrimp, zucchini noodles, high protein, healthy dinner, quick meal, low carb, gluten free