Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles

Try this Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles recipe, or contribute your own.

Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles
Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles

Try this Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles recipe, or contribute your own.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 3
  • Carbohydrate 0.363330654761905 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 0.0129047619047619 g
  • Fiber 0.0407619041027058 g
  • Protein 0.10250625 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.00139639880952381 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (153g)
  • Sodium 0.219404761904762 mg
  • Sugar 0.322568750659199 g
  • Trans Fat 0.00301684523809524 g
  • Calories 2 calories

Step-by-step

  • Spiralize zucchini using the fattest noodle blade then add to a colander set atop a bowl. Lightly salt then toss with your fingers to coat. Cover then place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to drain excess liquid.
  • Add tomatoes and basil to a large bowl with 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil then season with salt and pepper, stir to combine, and set aside.
  • Heat 1-1/2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat shrimp very dry between paper towels then season tops with garlic salt and pepper. Add half the shrimp to the skillet seasoning-side down then saute for 2 minutes per side, or until cooked through, then transfer to bowl with tomatoes and basil.
  • Heat another 1-1/2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in the skillet then saute remaining shrimp. When shrimp have 30 seconds left add garlic then saute until fragrant, and then add to the bowl and stir everything to combine.
  • Meanwhile, remove zoodles from refrigerator then pat dry with paper towels. Heat remaining Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in the skillet then add zoodles. Season with salt and pepper then saute until crisp-tender, 2-3 minutes.
  • Plate zoodles then top with garlicky tomato-basil shrimp and serve.

Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles: A Weeknight Delight

As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinners. This Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and surprisingly elegant for a simple meal. The best part? It's incredibly versatile – you can easily adjust the ingredients to match what you have on hand, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser, no matter who's at the table.

The key to this recipe's success lies in a few simple steps. First, properly draining the zucchini noodles is crucial. Salting them and letting them sit in a colander removes excess moisture, preventing a soggy dish. Second, don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the shrimp. Working in batches ensures that the shrimp cooks evenly and develops a beautiful sear. Finally, the garlic plays a starring role here. Adding it towards the end of the shrimp cooking process helps to retain its sharp flavor without burning. The fresh basil complements the garlicky shrimp beautifully, adding a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.

Beyond the Recipe: Adaptability and Flavor Exploration

What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Asparagus, bell peppers, or even spinach would be delicious additions. You can also easily swap out the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut zucchini noodles, but remember to pat them dry thoroughly before cooking.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Weeknight Meal

This Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate it further. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth. A side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious garlicky sauce. A simple green salad adds a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish.

More Than Just a Meal: A Moment of Connection

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget the importance of slowing down and enjoying a meal together. This recipe is more than just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s an opportunity to connect with family and friends around a shared table. The aroma of garlic and basil alone is enough to bring everyone together, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

So, the next time you're looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy meal that's sure to please everyone, give this Garlicky Tomato-Basil Shrimp with Zoodles a try. It's a recipe that's as versatile as it is flavorful, and it's sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Tips and Tricks for Success:

  • Buy high-quality shrimp: The flavor of the shrimp will greatly impact the final dish. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a fresh, ocean smell.
  • Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them until they are just pink and opaque.
  • Pat the zoodles dry: This is essential to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
  • Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less garlic, salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your liking.
  • Get creative with your vegetables: Try adding different vegetables to customize the dish.

Enjoy!