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Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Scampi - Light, Bright, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • Zucchini: 3–4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles (about 6–8 cups)
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Butter: 3 tablespoons (use unsalted to control salt)
  • Garlic: 4–5 cloves, finely minced
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon and 2–3 tablespoons fresh juice
  • Dry white wine: 1/3 cup (or chicken broth for alcohol-free)
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, to taste
  • Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Optional add-ins: Grated Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, or a pinch of smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Prep the zucchini noodles: Spiralize the zucchini and lay the noodles on a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry to reduce excess water later.
  2. Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a small pinch of red pepper flakes.
  3. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When hot and foamy, add the shrimp in a single layer.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Cook 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate. Do not overcook; they’ll finish in the sauce.
  5. Build the scampi sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in the garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned. Add red pepper flakes and lemon zest.
  6. Deglaze: Pour in the white wine (or broth). Scrape up any browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy.
  7. Add lemon: Stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Taste and adjust with more lemon if you want extra brightness.
  8. Toss in the shrimp: Return the shrimp and any juices to the pan. Cook 30–60 seconds to warm through.
  9. Fold in zucchini noodles: Add the zoodles and toss gently with tongs for 1–2 minutes, just until slightly tender but still crisp. Avoid overcooking or they’ll turn watery.
  10. Finish and serve: Turn off the heat. Stir in parsley. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon. Serve immediately with an optional sprinkle of Parmesan.