Make a quick, low-carb shrimp scampi using zucchini noodles instead of pasta. This recipe features a rich garlic butter sauce perfect for a ketogenic diet.
2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine substitute (or chicken broth)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the zoodles: Spiralize the zucchini. If you prefer less watery noodles, lightly salt them and let them sit for 10 minutes, then gently pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside.
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Pour in the white wine substitute (or broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the zoodles to the skillet. Toss gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the zoodles are heated through. Do not overcook, or they will become watery.
Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
For the best texture, avoid cooking the zoodles for more than two minutes in the sauce.
You can substitute chicken broth for white wine to keep the recipe alcohol-free while maintaining flavor.
If you need more sauce, add another tablespoon of butter and a splash more broth.