Description
This Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp recipe is a fresh, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for a low-carb or gluten-free option. The zucchini noodles are tossed in a rich, flavorful pesto sauce and topped with succulent shrimp for a satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors. Ideal for a light dinner or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra freshness)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until they begin to soften but still maintain some crunch. Be careful not to overcook to avoid soggy noodles.
- Add the pesto sauce to the zucchini noodles and toss well to coat the noodles in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently with the pesto and zucchini noodles.
- If desired, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the dish for a burst of freshness.
- Serve the zucchini noodles topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute zucchini noodles with other vegetable noodles like sweet potato or butternut squash noodles.
- For a creamier pesto, add a bit of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce.
- If you prefer a more substantial dish, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a small portion of rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Healthy, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
- Method: Sautéed, Tossed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-Inspired
Keywords: Zucchini noodles, shrimp pesto, healthy pasta alternative, low-carb meal, gluten-free, pesto shrimp