Go Back

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp With Zucchini Noodles - Fresh, Light, and Ready Fast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 3 medium zucchini (or 4 if small)
  • 2 lemons (zest and juice)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • Fresh herbs: parsley and/or basil; optional thyme or dill
  • Olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Butter (optional, for finishing)
  • Parmesan or feta (optional garnish)

Method
 

  1. Spiralize the zucchini: Use a spiralizer to make long noodles. If you don’t have one, use a julienne peeler or slice into thin ribbons with a knife. Spread the zoodles on a towel and lightly salt. Let them sit 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then gently pat dry.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk 3 tablespoons olive oil, zest of 1 lemon, juice of 1 lemon, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped parsley and 1 tablespoon chopped basil.
  3. Marinate the shrimp: Toss shrimp in the marinade and chill for 10–15 minutes. Don’t go longer than 30 minutes or the acid can start to “cook” them.
  4. Heat the grill or pan: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. No grill? Use a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil grates or pan.
  5. Cook the shrimp: Thread shrimp onto skewers or cook directly. Grill 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. In a skillet, cook 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  6. Warm the zoodles: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter (optional). Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook 30 seconds. Add zoodles and toss 1–2 minutes just until warmed and slightly tender. Squeeze in a little lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Combine and finish: Add shrimp to the skillet with zoodles. Toss gently. Sprinkle with more chopped herbs, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon. Top with shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta if you like.
  8. Serve right away: Divide into bowls and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes.