Crispy Shrimp & Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Butter

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-07 · Updated 2026-04-07

Light, lemony shrimp served over zucchini noodles with a garlic-butter sauce that clings perfectly. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 22 minutes pairs shrimp, medium zucchini, butter for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 8 oz shrimp
• 2 medium zucchini
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Trim shrimp tails and pat dry. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
2. Step 2: Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Step 3: Squeeze juice from 1 lemon over the garlic butter, then add 1/2 cup zucchini noodles (made by spiralizing 2 zucchinis). Toss for 2-3 minutes until noodles are tender but still crisp.
4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet, add 2 tbsp chopped parsley, and toss to coat. Cook for 1 minute more until heated through. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.