Pin There's something magical about the combination of garlic, butter, and fresh seafood. This Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp over Zucchini Noodles brings together succulent shrimp and tender zucchini in a sauce that's both luxurious and light. The dish embodies coastal simplicity with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Pin As someone who appreciates both flavor and nutrition, I find this dish strikes the perfect balance. The shrimp cook quickly, absorbing the aromatic garlic butter, while the zucchini noodles maintain just enough texture to mimic traditional pasta. It's a dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and proves that keto eating can be both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) and lemon juice.
- Cook the zucchini noodles
- Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until noodles are tender but still have bite.
- Combine and finish
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together for 1 minute to heat through. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Don't overcook the zucchini noodles as they can quickly become soggy. The goal is to warm them through while maintaining a slight crunch. If you're using a spiralizer, choose the medium thickness blade for the best texture that resembles pasta. For the shrimp, make sure they're completely thawed and dried before cooking to ensure they sear properly rather than steam.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with ghee or olive oil. If shellfish isn't your preference, this sauce works beautifully with chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces or even scallops as mentioned in the notes. For extra vegetables, try adding cherry tomatoes in the last minute of cooking, or fold in some fresh spinach just until wilted.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this dish immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a perfect accompaniment. For those not strictly following keto, a slice of crusty bread is ideal for sopping up the delicious garlic butter sauce. As suggested in the recipe notes, a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of this dish.
Pin This Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles has become a staple in my kitchen for good reason. It reminds us that eating well doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. The combination of protein-rich shrimp and fresh vegetables creates a meal that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a delicious, quick dinner, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Sauté shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2–3 minutes per side, to keep them tender and juicy.
- → Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini noodles?
Yes, spiralized cucumbers or sautéed asparagus can work well as alternatives for a fresh, crunchy base.
- → How do I make the garlic butter sauce richer?
Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for extra creaminess and a luxurious texture.
- → What can I substitute if I don’t eat shellfish?
Scallops or diced chicken are excellent alternatives offering similar protein and texture.
- → How do I store leftovers properly?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture.