Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Noodles
320 calories · 32 g protein · Dinner
Prep time
15 min
Cook time
10 min
Servings
2
Calories
320 per serving

When you want a dinner that is high in protein but light on carbs, shrimp and zucchini noodles are a winning combination. Shrimp cooks in three minutes, so the whole dish is on the table in about twenty-five, and it delivers 32 grams of protein for only 320 calories.
Zucchini noodles keep the plate low-carb without feeling deprived, especially with a garlicky olive oil sauce and a little Parmesan. It is a smart choice for an evening meal that will not leave you stuffed before bed.
Ingredients
- large shrimp, peeled and deveined12 oz (340 g)
- zucchini, spiralized (about 3 medium)4 cups (450 g)
- garlic, thinly sliced3 cloves (9 g)
- olive oil2 tbsp (30 ml)
- red pepper flakes1/4 tsp (0.5 g)
- grated Parmesan2 tbsp (10 g)
- fresh lemon juice1 tbsp (15 ml)
- flat-leaf parsley, chopped2 tbsp (6 g)
- salt and black pepper, to taste1/4 tsp (1 g)
Directions
- 1
Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
- 3
Add the remaining oil to the pan, then the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—do not let the garlic brown.
- 4
Add the zucchini noodles and toss for 2 to 3 minutes, just until warmed and slightly softened. Overcooking makes them watery.
- 5
Return the shrimp to the pan, add the lemon juice, and toss everything together for 30 seconds.
- 6
Divide between two bowls and top with Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.
Developed by Carol, the home cook behind our recipes (a home cook in her 50s), with our nutrition writing team.
Nutrition (approximate)
320
Calories
32 g
Protein
12 g
Carbs
16 g
Fat
Nutrition values are approximate and calculated per serving.
Tips
- ✓Salt the zucchini noodles and let them drain for 10 minutes, then pat dry to avoid a watery pan.
- ✓Do not walk away from the garlic—30 seconds is all it takes to go from fragrant to bitter.
- ✓Serve over a small portion of whole-wheat pasta if you want a more substantial carb base.


