Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that is as healthy as it is delicious? Look no further than this Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles recipe. Bursting with zesty flavors, this dish combines succulent shrimp with crisp zucchini noodles, making it a perfect option for a light dinner or a flavorful meal prep. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your shrimp cook evenly and retain their juiciness.
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Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
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Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the shrimp.
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Bake the Shrimp: Spread the marinated shrimp out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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Cook the Zucchini Noodles: While the shrimp are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the spiralized zucchini noodles for about 2-3 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, being careful not to overcook them; they should remain firm and al dente.
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Combine and Serve: Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and toss them gently with the zucchini noodles in the skillet. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips
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Selecting Fresh Shrimp: When choosing shrimp, look for ones that are firm and have a slight sea smell. Avoid shrimp that have a strong fishy odor, as this can indicate they are not fresh.
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Zucchini Noodles: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons of zucchini. This will add a unique texture to your dish.
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Flavor Variations: For a twist, try adding a splash of white wine to the marinade or some cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of color and flavor.
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Make it a Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles with a light side salad or crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea will complement this dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that can elevate any dining experience. Perfectly cooked shrimp paired with fresh zucchini noodles creates a meal that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic add a burst of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.
For more culinary inspiration and delicious recipes, consider exploring additional articles on healthy seafood dishes or inventive ways to enjoy zucchini in your meals. With just a bit of creativity in the kitchen, you can turn everyday ingredients into gourmet experiences. Happy cooking!
Related Resources
Feel free to experiment with this recipe and make it your own. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy of sharing delicious food!
