Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's not only bursting with flavor but also light and healthy? Dive into the delightful world of "Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Baked Shrimp," where vibrant zucchini noodles meet succulent shrimp, all enveloped in the rich, aromatic embrace of pesto sauce. This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a feast for your eyes too! Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking to impress without the stress. Let’s get cooking and transform your kitchen into a culinary paradise!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and even cooking. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper heat circulation.
- Bake the shrimp for 6-8 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness.
- While the shrimp bake, spiralize the zucchini using a spiralizer or vegetable noodle maker, creating long, thin noodle-like strands.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly softened but still maintaining a crisp texture.
- Remove the zucchini noodles from heat and drain any excess liquid to prevent sogginess.
- Toss the zucchini noodles with pesto sauce, ensuring even coating and distribution of flavor.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove from the oven and gently fold them into the pesto zucchini noodles.
- Plate the dish and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.
- Serve immediately while the shrimp are warm and the zucchini noodles are fresh and vibrant.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh zucchini and high-quality shrimp. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while they bake. They cook quickly and should be removed from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
- Avoid Soggy Noodles: After sautéing the zucchini noodles, be sure to drain any excess liquid. This will prevent your dish from becoming watery and maintain the delightful texture of the noodles.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with different types of pesto or even make your own! Adding nuts, garlic, or different herbs can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after combining the shrimp and zucchini noodles to keep everything warm and vibrant.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese! A generous sprinkle on top not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation of your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 180mg
