Looking for a quick and tasty keto dinner that won’t raise carbohydrate levels? This Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp recipe is an excellent choice. In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy the bold flavors of sautéed garlic shrimp combined with the refreshing taste of spiral zucchini noodles. It’s a dish that delivers both taste and health in one quick meal.

If you prefer a ketogenic diet or a healthier alternative to pasta, this recipe includes protein, healthy fats, and macronutrients.

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Why you will love this keto zucchini noodles with Garlic Shrimp recipe

Low in carbs; only 5g of carbs per serving

Quick to prepare: ready in just 25 minutes.

High in protein: Shrimp is an excellent lean protein source.

Light and refreshing: Zoodles add texture without heaviness.

Perfect for meal prep: stores well and reheats easily.

Ingredients You’ll Need keto zucchini noodles with garlic shrimp

2 medium zucchini (spiralized into noodles)

1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Juice of ½ lemon

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

¼ cup grated parmesan

1 tbsp butter

How to Spiralize Zucchini (Zoodles)?

Use a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or mandoline to make zucchini noodles, keeping them medium-thick so they don’t get soggy when cooked.
Here’s a pro tip: After spiralizing, salt the zoodles lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and keeps them from getting watery.

Instructions: How to Make Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prep the shrimp—season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon juice. Let it sit while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Cook the garlic shrimp – In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the zucchini noodles – In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil (and butter, if using). Toss in the zoodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently. Don’t overcook them! They should be tender but still firm.

Step 4: Combine and serve – Add the shrimp back to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and toss everything together. Garnish with chopped herbs and optional parmesan. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving) of zucchini noodles with garlic shrimp

Calories: 290 kcal

Fat: 18g

Protein: 28g

carbs: 6g

Fiber: 1g

Net carbs: 5g

Tips for the Best Keto Shrimp Dinner

Don’t overcook the zoodles: They can become mushy if sautéed too long.

Use fresh shrimp: They cook fast and taste better than frozen.

Use garlic-infused olive oil to boost the flavor.

Stir 2 tbsp of heavy cream at the end for a creamy garlic butter sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave to keep the zoodles from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions of zucchini noodles

A side of avocado salad or keto garlic bread.

A glass of lemon water or unsweetened iced tea.

Top with crushed chili flakes and extra herbs for a spicier kick.

Variations You Can Try

Add cherry tomatoes: Sauté for a burst of acidity and color.

Use chicken instead of shrimp: Keep it keto and switch up the protein.

Make it dairy-free: Omit the parmesan and butter, and use coconut oil.

Keto-friendly Sides to Pair with This Dish

Keto-Friendly Sides to Pair with This Dish

While the shrimp and zucchini noodles can stand alone as a complete meal, you can elevate your dinner experience with a few keto-friendly sides:

Cauliflower mash with garlic and chives—creamy and low in carbs.

Avocado and cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette—fresh and hydrating.

Roasted broccoli or asparagus with olive oil and sea salt—simple and nutritious.

A small serving of keto cloud bread or almond flour flatbread—great for soaking up garlic sauce.

How to Avoid Soggy Zoodles

One common problem while cooking zucchini noodles is sogginess. To avoid this, do not salt your zoodles while they are cooking. The secret to removing excess moisture without making them mushy is to salt them ahead of time and pat dry.
Another advice is to avoid covering the skillet while cooking, since steam can build up and cause soggy noodles.
If you’re using frozen zoodles, make sure to fully thaw them and wring out as much water as possible with a cheesecloth or paper towels.

Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp

Recipe by abdinhalaCourse: Dinner, Main course, RecipesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Light, fresh, and low-carb, this Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp recipe is bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp, sautéed garlic, and tender zoodles come together in under 30 minutes for a healthy dinner you’ll crave again and again. Perfect for keto, gluten-free, and low-carb diets!

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini, spiralized
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled & deveined
3 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt & black pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated parmesan (optional)
1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let it marinate briefly.
Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30 seconds. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2 minutes per side or until opaque. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the zoodles: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil (plus butter if using). Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently. Don’t overcook!
Combine and serve: Return shrimp to the skillet. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh herbs and parmesan if desired. Serve hot!

Frequently Asked Questions about zucchini noodles with garlic shrimp

Q: Can I use precooked shrimp?

A: Yes, but shorten the cooking time.

Q: How do I know when shrimp are done?

A: Shrimp turn pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape when cooked. Overcooking makes them tough.

Q: What can I substitute for shrimp?

A: You can use scallops, chunks of salmon, or diced chicken breast as alternatives.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: yes, omit the butter and parmesan. Use avocado oil instead of olive oil if preferred.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Try adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: You can prep the ingredients (spiralize zucchini, marinate shrimp), but it’s best cooked fresh to avoid soggy zoodles.

Conclusion

This Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy keto dinner recipe that’s fast, fresh, and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a gourmet low-carb meal that fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle.

Keto Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp: Quick Low-Carb Dinner Recipe