Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Sauce
n the culinary world where health meets flavor, the Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Sauce recipe is making waves. This dish is a delightful fusion of the ocean's bounty and garden-fresh ingredients. Shrimp, known for its lean protein and rich omega-3 fatty acids, pairs beautifully with zucchini noodles, often termed 'zoodles'. Zoodles have gained immense popularity among health enthusiasts and those looking for low-carb alternatives to traditional pasta. The addition of pesto sauce, with its aromatic basil, nutty pine nuts, and rich olive oil, elevates the dish to gourmet levels. This recipe is not only a testament to the versatility of seafood but also showcases how traditional ingredients can be innovatively used to cater to modern dietary preferences. Whether you're a keto follower, a gluten-free advocate, or just someone looking to indulge in a light yet flavorful meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Dive into the world of healthy gourmet with this stellar recipe that promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
2 serving (s)
15 mins
30 mins
300 kcal
Yields:
Prep Time:
Cal/Serv:
Total Time:
Approximate Nutritional Info: 15g fat, 10g carbs, 25g protein
Ingredients
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200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 zucchinis, spiralized
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2 tbsp pesto sauce (30g)
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1 tbsp olive oil (15ml)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Begin by cleaning the shrimp. Remove the shells and the vein running along the back. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.
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Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchinis into noodle-like strands. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons.
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In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap.
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Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the zucchini noodles. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until they start to soften.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pesto sauce, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
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Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs or grated parmesan if desired.
Notes
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Choosing the Right Shrimp: Opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp when possible. They tend to have a sweeter and cleaner taste compared to farm-raised ones. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they're fully thawed before cooking.
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Zoodle Mastery: Use a spiralizer for consistent zucchini noodles. If you don't have one, a julienne peeler or a regular vegetable peeler can work. Just aim for uniform strips for even cooking.
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Pesto Variations: Traditional pesto is made with basil, but feel free to experiment! Spinach, arugula, or even kale can be used for a unique flavor twist.
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Dietary Adjustments:
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Vegan: Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh. Use a vegan parmesan alternative in the pesto.
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Nut-Free: Swap out pine nuts in the pesto for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
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Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives in place of parmesan in the pesto.
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Don't Overcook the Zoodles: Zucchini noodles can release a lot of water and become mushy if overcooked. Sauté just until they're al dente – tender but with a slight crunch.
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Boost the Protein: Apart from shrimp, you can add chicken, beef strips, or even tofu for added protein. This makes the dish even more filling.
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Storage: If you're meal prepping, store the pesto separately and mix it with the zoodles and shrimp just before serving. This keeps the zoodles from getting soggy.
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Spice It Up: For those who like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the shrimp while cooking.
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Wine Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
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Serving Suggestion: While this dish is a complete meal on its own, it can also be served with a side of garlic bread (or a keto-friendly alternative) to soak up the delicious pesto sauce.
Remember, the beauty of cooking is in the experimentation. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Happy cooking! 🍤🌿
