This is a fast and nutritious meal that replaces pasta with zucchini noodles, which are dressed with olive oil, and spiced just right. A perfect way to mix in sautéed or grilled shrimp! You can try mixing vibrant green and yellow zucchini to make your noodles more colorful, or get them pre-made at your grocery.
What is great about Shrimp with Chimichurri Zoodles?
Shrimp, known for its delicate and slightly sweet taste, pairs wonderfully with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri sauce. Chimichurri is a traditional Argentinean sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, which adds a tangy and herbaceous kick to the dish. The combination of the succulent shrimp and the zesty chimichurri creates a burst of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.
Shrimp is a lean source of protein and contains essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. It is also relatively low in calories and fat. Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta, providing a lighter and gluten-free option. Zucchini is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to the dish. The chimichurri sauce, made with fresh herbs, contributes additional antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds.
Shrimp cooks quickly, which means this dish can be prepared in a short amount of time, making it ideal for busy individuals or those who prefer convenient meals. Zoodles require minimal cooking time, as they are typically served raw or lightly sautéed. Chimichurri sauce can be prepared in advance or whipped up quickly in a food processor. Overall, it's a relatively simple recipe that delivers impressive results.
Shrimp with Chimichurri Zoodles is versatile and adaptable to personal preferences. You can modify the dish by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the nutritional profile and add more colors and textures. Additionally, you can adjust the spice level and seasonings in the chimichurri sauce according to your taste preferences, making it suitable for a wide range of palates.
This dish has a light and refreshing quality, perfect for those looking for a lighter meal option or during warmer months. The zucchini noodles provide a fresh and crisp texture, while the chimichurri sauce adds a vibrant and invigorating flavor. The combination of the cool zoodles, succulent shrimp, and tangy sauce creates a satisfying and revitalizing eating experience.
Tips
Select fresh and high-quality shrimp, zucchini, and herbs for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste and appearance of the dish.
For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the shrimp in the chimichurri sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp, resulting in a more delicious and well-seasoned dish.
If you're opting for raw zoodles, lightly season them with salt before combining them with the cooked shrimp and chimichurri sauce. This helps to draw out some moisture from the zucchini and adds a touch of seasoning.
If you prefer a slightly softer texture for the zoodles, quickly sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil for 1-2 minutes. This will soften them slightly while still retaining some of their crunchiness.
While chimichurri traditionally contains parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. You can add cilantro, basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your preferences.
Shrimp with Chimichurri Zoodles
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
The Sauce:
1 lemon
1 red chili pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2/3 cup olive oil
Shrimp Zoodles:
8 oz. of zucchini (or pre-made zucchini noodles)
1 lb peeled raw shrimp
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 limes for serving
Directions:
1. Make the sauce. Place all the sauce ingredients into a Vitamix or high powdered blender and blend until smooth.
2. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and spray with olive oil. Once hot (about 30 seconds), add shrimp and let cook for 2-3 minutes on one side. Flip them over and cook for another minute until white and firm.
3. Turn heat to low and add zucchini noodles, paprika, cumin, and salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, depending on preference. Turn off heat and mix in as much spicy chimichurri as you like. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Suggested Pairing
This dish would pair well with a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or a dry rosé.
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