Craving a delicious, healthy dinner that’s on the table in under 30 minutes? Look no further! Protein-packed shrimp cooks in a flash, making it the perfect hero for those busy weeknights. We’re tossing it in a fragrant, homemade Red Pesto and serving it over fresh, low-carb zucchini noodles for a meal that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying. Dinner is done!
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp / 30 g ghee or other healthy cooking fat
• 10.6 oz / 300 g raw, peeled shrimp
• 1/4 cup / 60 g Red Pesto
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp chili powder, optional
• 1 tbsp / 15 ml lemon juice
• 1/2 cup / 75 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 medium / 400 g zucchini, spiralized
• 2 tbsp / 30 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish
• 4 tbsp / 20 g grated Parmesan cheese for topping, optional
Instructions
1. Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to turn pink.
2. Stir in the red pesto, oregano, and optional chili powder. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the spiralized zucchini and cook for 2 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently, until it reaches your desired tenderness.
4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle with lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, divide the mixture between two plates. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, garnish with fresh basil, and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition Facts Per Serving
• Total Carbs: 12 g
• Fiber: 3.7 g
• Net Carbs: 8.3 g
• Protein: 25.4 g
• Fat: 42.7 g
• Energy: 519 kcal
• Macronutrient Ratio: Calories from carbs (6%), protein (20%), fat (74%)
Pro Tips
• For firmer zucchini noodles, salt them in a colander for 20-30 minutes before cooking to draw out excess water. Pat dry before adding to the skillet.
• Not a fan of shrimp? Try sliced chicken thighs instead. Cook them for 4 to 5 minutes before adding the pesto.
• If you have any leftover shrimp shells, don’t throw them out! Use them to make a quick and flavorful seafood stock for future recipes.
FAQ
Q: How do I keep my zucchini noodles from getting watery
A: For firmer zucchini noodles, the best method is to salt them in a colander for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This process draws out excess moisture. Be sure to pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp
A: Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can easily substitute the shrimp with sliced chicken thighs. Just cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes before adding the red pesto.
Q: Is this red pesto shrimp recipe keto-friendly
A: Absolutely. With only 8.3 grams of net carbs and a high fat content of 42.7 grams per serving, this meal is an excellent choice for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Q: How long does this shrimp and zoodle recipe take to make
A: This is a perfect weeknight meal because it’s incredibly fast. From start to finish, you can have this delicious and healthy dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
