Go Back

High Protein Shrimp Scampi With Zucchini Noodles - Light, Fresh, and Satisfying

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1.5 pounds large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • Zucchini: 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons (or ghee for a richer finish)
  • Garlic: 5–6 cloves, finely minced
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, to taste
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon and juice of 1–2 lemons (about 3–4 tablespoons)
  • Dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup
  • Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup chopped
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Optional protein boost: 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%), stirred smooth
  • Optional garnishes: Freshly grated Parmesan, extra lemon wedges

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Dry shrimp sear better and stay juicy.
  2. Spiralize the zucchini: Use a spiralizer to make long strands. If your zoodles seem very wet, lightly salt them and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes, then gently squeeze excess moisture. Don’t overdo it or they’ll turn limp.
  3. Sear the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove to a plate. Repeat with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and shrimp. Set aside.
  4. Build the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned. Add lemon zest.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in the wine or broth. Scrape up any browned bits and simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Finish the sauce: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice and half the parsley. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon. The sauce should be bright and slightly silky.
  7. Warm the zoodles: Add zucchini noodles to the pan. Toss with tongs for 1–2 minutes, just until warmed and slightly tender but still crisp. Avoid overcooking.
  8. Bring it together: Return shrimp (and any juices) to the pan. Toss gently 30–60 seconds to coat and heat through.
  9. Optional protein boost: Remove pan from heat. Quickly fold in Greek yogurt until smooth. Keep the heat off to prevent curdling. If needed, loosen with a splash of warm broth.
  10. Serve: Top with remaining parsley and, if you like, a sprinkle of Parmesan. Add extra lemon on the side and serve immediately.