Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet

Name: Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: QuickFix Kitchen

A quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-31T20:14:29.276Z

This Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet is a delightful blend of succulent shrimp and tender zucchini, infused with garlic and herbs. It's a meal that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
Packed with flavor from fresh garlic and herbs
Healthy and light yet satisfying
Great for a low-carb or gluten-free meal

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be a challenge. This Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet is designed to fit seamlessly into your weeknight routine. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a homemade dinner with your family.

The combination of shrimp and zucchini not only makes this dish quick to prepare but also offers a wonderful balance of protein and vegetables. This meal is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.

Flavor Packed and Nutritious

One of the standout features of this recipe is its flavor profile. The use of fresh garlic and herbs elevates the dish, making each bite a burst of savory goodness. Paprika adds a hint of warmth and color, creating a visually appealing and aromatic dish that will impress your family and friends.

In addition to being flavorful, this dish is also packed with nutrients. Shrimp are a fantastic source of lean protein, and zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals. Together, they create a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing, perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your taste or dietary needs. This Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out shrimp for another protein like chicken or tofu, or add different vegetables such as bell peppers or asparagus to make it your own.

Whether you're following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, this meal fits the bill. It's also perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to prepare a healthy option ahead of time that can be quickly reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Add the Zucchini

Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still crisp.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete dish.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try squeezing some lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve tender and juicy shrimp, be careful not to overcook them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are done. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, depending on their size. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Another tip is to use high-quality, fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic provides a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced varieties, and using good-quality olive oil can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delicious the next day. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

You can also freeze the dish if needed. Just be aware that the texture of the zucchini may change after freezing and reheating, but it will still be tasty. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Garlic Zucchini Skillet is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or a light salad for added texture and nutrition. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch.

For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with a light appetizer or side, such as a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up any extra juices. This combination will create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for zucchini?

You can use bell peppers or asparagus as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.