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Savory Shrimp and Garlic Butter Squash Noodles for a Low-Carb Delight

Savory Shrimp and Garlic Butter Squash Noodles for a Low-Carb Delight

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Squash Noodles

  1. Using a spiralizer, vegetable peeler, or mandoline, create noodles from your zucchini or yellow squash. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can simply slice the squash into thin strips or ribbons.
  2. Place the squash noodles on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. This will help prevent the noodles from becoming too watery during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
  2. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
  2. If you like a bit more richness, you can add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the pan to create a slightly more savory sauce. Stir the sauce to combine and let it simmer for another minute.

Step 4: Sauté the Squash Noodles

  1. Add the squash noodles to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm. You don’t want to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Squash Noodles

  1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the squash noodles and toss everything together so that the shrimp and noodles are evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
  2. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Plate the savory shrimp and garlic butter squash noodles in individual servings. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  2. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese is optional for those who enjoy a little extra richness.

Tips for Perfect Savory Shrimp and Garlic Butter Squash Noodles

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish.
  • Customize the Vegetables: While squash noodles are a great low-carb option, you can also use other vegetables like sweet potato noodles or spaghetti squash for a different texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetable you choose.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to bulk up the dish with additional vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. They can easily be sautéed along with the squash noodles to add more color and nutrients to the dish.
  • Make It Spicy: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

Why This Dish is Perfect for a Low-Carb Diet

Traditional pasta dishes are often loaded with carbs and can derail your diet goals. However, this Savory Shrimp and Garlic Butter Squash Noodles swaps out high-carb pasta for squash noodles, giving you the same satisfying texture without the extra carbs. Zucchini and yellow squash are both low in calories and carbohydrates but rich in fiber, helping to keep you full longer.

Additionally, the shrimp provides lean protein, while the garlic butter sauce adds rich flavor without adding unnecessary carbs. This makes the dish perfect for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle, or for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, lighter version of their favorite shrimp pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Shrimp and Garlic Butter Squash Noodles recipe is not only delicious but also a nutritious and satisfying way to enjoy a flavorful meal without the guilt. The combination of shrimp, garlic butter, and squash noodles creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a low-carb, healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Whether you’re on a keto diet, cutting back on carbs, or just looking for a quick, light dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So grab your squash, shrimp, and garlic, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying low-carb delight!