If you’re looking for a light and flavorful meal that’s packed with nutrients, this Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp is a must-try dish. It’s a perfect choice for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, as it replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles.” These zucchini noodles are tossed in a vibrant and aromatic homemade pesto sauce, then topped with succulent shrimp for a satisfying and healthy meal. With the freshness of the zucchini, the richness of the pesto, and the savory shrimp, this dish is a true delight for your taste buds. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free culinary experience with this flavorful recipe.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 2
Difficulty: Intermediate
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Ingredients: For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth and creamy pesto. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Set the pesto aside.
- Using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler, create zucchini noodles from the medium zucchini. Set the noodles aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch.
- Add the prepared pesto to the skillet with the zucchini noodles and toss well to coat the noodles evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the pesto.
- Divide the zucchini noodles and pesto into serving plates and top with the cooked shrimp.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve the Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp immediately.
Note: Feel free to customize this dish by adding additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or sautรฉed mushrooms for extra flavour and texture. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts on top for added richness.
Savour the light and refreshing flavours of this Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Shrimp dish. With vibrant pesto, tender zucchini noodles, and succulent shrimp, every bite is a burst of deliciousness. Enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal that’s full of nutrients and packed with flavour. This recipe is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend indulgence.
