Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Alternative: Using zucchini noodles (“zoodles”) instead of regular pasta reduces carbohydrates while adding nutritional value.
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a delightful taste experience. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sesame oil. Sauté the red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Zucchini Noodles: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently, until the zoodles are slightly tender but still firm (al dente).
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and grated ginger. Toss everything together to ensure even coating and heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for different protein options.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the zucchini noodles soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Do I need a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles?
While a spiralizer is convenient, you can also use a julienne peeler or purchase pre-spiralized zucchini from the store.
How do I prevent zucchini noodles from becoming watery?
Avoid overcooking the zoodles; cook them just until slightly tender. Additionally, you can sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure the hoisin sauce is gluten-free as well.
Can I add noodles to this dish?
Yes, you can mix zucchini noodles with traditional noodles like rice noodles or spaghetti for added texture and substance.
Conclusion
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp is a versatile and healthy dish that brings together fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp in a savory sauce. Its quick preparation and adaptability make it a fantastic option for those seeking a nutritious meal without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this stir-fry is sure to satisfy.
Print
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp is a fresh and healthy dish that swaps traditional noodles for spiralized zucchini, making it a low-carb, gluten-free meal. Packed with shrimp, bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this quick 25-minute stir-fry is perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat sesame oil. Cook bell peppers, onion, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Zoodles: Add zucchini noodles, cooking for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Combine & Toss: Return shrimp to the skillet, add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger. Toss well and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or beef.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots.
- Spice It Up: Mix in red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
