Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles is the perfect dish for those who crave something flavorful, healthy, and easy to make. This recipe marries the zesty freshness of lime with the bold and aromatic touch of cilantro, all wrapped in a buttery, garlicky sauce. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet remains light, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated meal to impress guests.
PrintCilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
🌟🥒 Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles is your new go-to for a fresh and flavorful meal! 🍤 This dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky lime butter sauce, paired with tender zucchini noodles for a guilt-free, low-carb delight. 🍋🌿 Quick to make and packed with vibrant flavors—perfect for any occasion!
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- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base of the rich and velvety sauce.
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (16–24 count): Shelled and deveined, these cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Adds a robust, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat.
- 1/4 cup white wine, chicken broth, or shrimp broth: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brightens the dish with its zesty flavor.
- 3 medium zucchini: Spiralized into noodles, these provide a healthy base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Intensifies the lime flavor and adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped: Brings a herbaceous note to the dish.
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini noodles:
- Use a spiralizer or mandoline to cut the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have these tools, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons. Set the zoodles aside.
- Cook the shrimp:
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it begins to froth. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp and add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, then remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
- Deglaze the pan:
- Pour the white wine (or broth) and lime juice into the pan, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Cook the zucchini noodles:
- Add the zucchini noodles to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the noodles are just tender but still have a slight crunch. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become watery.
- Combine and season:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, along with the lime zest and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the shrimp and noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately:
- Transfer the shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles to a serving dish and enjoy it while it’s warm.
Notes
- Shrimp Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with chicken, beef strips, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein is cooked through.
- Zucchini Noodles: If you don’t have zucchini or prefer a different base, try spaghetti squash, rice noodles, or regular pasta. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works well too.
- Butter Substitute: Use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be used as a substitute without compromising the overall flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its vibrant flavors but also in its adaptability. While traditional shrimp scampi is typically served with pasta, this version uses zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a healthier, gluten-free alternative. The natural sweetness of zucchini pairs beautifully with the richness of the sauce, creating a well-balanced dish that’s satisfying without being heavy.
Whether you’re a fan of seafood or new to cooking with shrimp, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it on its own, with a side of crusty bread, or even alongside rice or quinoa for extra heartiness. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed dish:
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base of the rich and velvety sauce.
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (16-24 count): Shelled and deveined, these cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Adds a robust, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat.
- 1/4 cup white wine, chicken broth, or shrimp broth: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brightens the dish with its zesty flavor.
- 3 medium zucchini: Spiralized into noodles, these provide a healthy base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Intensifies the lime flavor and adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped: Brings a herbaceous note to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Prepare the zucchini noodles:
- Use a spiralizer or mandoline to cut the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have these tools, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons. Set the zoodles aside.
- Cook the shrimp:
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it begins to froth. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp and add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, then remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
- Deglaze the pan:
- Pour the white wine (or broth) and lime juice into the pan, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Cook the zucchini noodles:
- Add the zucchini noodles to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the noodles are just tender but still have a slight crunch. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become watery.
- Combine and season:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, along with the lime zest and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the shrimp and noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately:
- Transfer the shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles to a serving dish and enjoy it while it’s warm.
Flavors, Textures, and Aromas
This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures. The sauce is rich and buttery, with the garlic providing a savory backbone and the lime juice adding a bright, tangy punch. The shrimp, perfectly cooked, are tender and juicy, while the zucchini noodles offer a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy sauce. The fresh cilantro ties everything together with its herbaceous aroma, creating a dish that’s as inviting to smell as it is to taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Shrimp Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with chicken, beef strips, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein is cooked through.
- Zucchini Noodles: If you don’t have zucchini or prefer a different base, try spaghetti squash, rice noodles, or regular pasta. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works well too.
- Butter Substitute: Use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil can be used as a substitute without compromising the overall flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving.
- Asian-Inspired: Replace lime juice with lemon juice and add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian flair.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it rubbery. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque.
- Handle Zoodles Carefully: Zucchini noodles release water when cooked, so keep the cooking time short and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro make a significant difference in flavor, so avoid pre-packaged or bottled substitutes.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the zucchini noodles can become soggy if left to sit for too long.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Serve alongside a simple side salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- For a heartier meal, add a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles is a dish that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious. The combination of buttery shrimp, zesty lime, and aromatic cilantro creates a flavor profile that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Its versatility ensures it can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences, and the light, vibrant flavors make it perfect for any time of year.
Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your skillet, spiralize those zucchinis, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Bon appétit!