Introduction to Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
Welcome! If you’re looking for a refreshing, quick meal that’s both delicious and healthy, you’ve come to the right place. I’m excited to share my recipe for Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles, a dish that’s perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and can be put together in a snap. With the juicy shrimp complemented by the zesty citrus flavors, this meal is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it feels great to know you’re serving something that’s as good for you as it is tasty!
Why You’ll Love This Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles is my go-to recipe for many reasons. First off, it’s quick to make. You can whip it up in just over an hour, including prep and marinating time. The bright, tangy flavors are not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing, making it a perfect choice for lighter meals. Plus, it’s a healthy option that even picky eaters will love. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a meal that’s both easy and impressive?
Ingredients for Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
Let’s dive into the delightful ingredients that create the magic in Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles. Each element adds a unique twist, ensuring you get layers of flavor without the fuss.
- Lime Zest: Adds a bright, tangy note that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
- Orange Zest: Compliments the lime with a touch of sweetness, creating a citrus explosion.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings depth and richness to the marinade.
- Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh burst that brightens up the entire dish.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Provides acidity, balancing sweetness and enhancing the flavors.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Sweetens the marinade, making it irresistibly tasty.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps to emulsify the citrus marinade, creating a smooth blend.
- Fine Sea Salt: Essential for enhancing all the wonderful flavors.
- Black Pepper or Chipotle Chili Powder: Adds a hint of spice; you can choose your kick level.
- Honey (optional): For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness; skip it for a Whole30 dish.
- Shrimp: The star of the meal; fresh shrimp is best for optimal flavor and texture.
- Zucchini: Spiralized into zoodles as a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta.
- Extra Cilantro: For garnish, bringing a pop of color and flavor.
You can check the bottom of the article for specific quantities of each ingredient, and they’re all available for easy printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients; it sets the stage for an amazing culinary adventure!
How to Make Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to bring this delightful dish to life! Let me walk you through the steps to create Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles. It’s simpler than it seems, and you’ll be amazed at the deliciousness that unfolds!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by grabbing a bowl and combine all the marinade ingredients—lime zest, orange zest, minced garlic, cilantro, lime juice, orange juice, and salt and pepper. Whisk it together or blend on low for a minute.
Now here’s the trick: slowly whisk in the olive oil. This emulsification process makes the marinade smooth and creamy. It’s like magic as the ingredients mix and come together!
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Take a generous 3 tablespoons of your beautiful marinade and set it aside; we’ll need this later.
Now, toss the shrimp into the remaining marinade. Make sure they’re well coated to soak up those amazing flavors. Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. Trust me—the longer, the better!
Step 3: Spiralize Zucchini Noodles
While the shrimp is soaking up that marinade, let’s work on the zucchini. Spiralize them into zoodles—it’s easy and fun!
Once spiralized, place the zoodles in a colander and sprinkle them with sea salt. Let them sweat for about an hour. This step helps release excess moisture, preventing your dish from becoming soggy.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Fire up your grill and make sure it’s hot! Brush the grates lightly with olive oil to avoid sticking. Now, remove the shrimp from the marinade, shaking off the excess.
Season the shrimp lightly with sea salt and pepper for that extra zing. Grill them in a single layer for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can turn them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the shrimp are perfectly grilled, let them cool for a moment. Toss them with the drained zoodles and your reserved marinade. This adds flavor and keeps everything juicy.
Garnish generously with fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately, and watch how quickly this dish disappears!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the marinated shrimp; it really enhances the taste!
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
- Experiment with additional veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch!
- Don’t forget to taste the marinade before adding it to the shrimp—it should be vibrant and flavorful!
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A standard outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan both work well.
- Spiralizer: A handheld spiralizer or a box grater also does the trick for zoodles.
- Mixing Bowl: Any size mixing bowl is fine for marinating and mixing.
- Colander: Used for draining your zucchini zoodles; a fine sieve can substitute.
- Whisk: A whisk or a fork to mix your marinade effectively.
Variations on Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
- Add a Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
- Switch Up the Protein: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or even scallops for a delightful twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a unique flavor profile.
- Citrus Variety: Try using grapefruit or lemon zest and juice to give a new taste dimension.
- Veggie Medley: Incorporate other spiralized veggies like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrients and color.
Serving Suggestions for Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
- Pair with a light, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the citrus flavors.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for added crunch and color.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon right before serving.
- Garnish with additional cilantro or toasted nuts for an elegant touch.
- For a fun twist, offer lime wedges on the side for extra zing!
FAQs about Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
Can I make Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the shrimp in advance. Just remember to cook the shrimp right before serving for the best flavor and texture. The zoodles can be made ahead but should be added just before serving to keep them fresh.
How do I store leftovers of Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The shrimp may lose some texture, but the flavors will still be delightful. Just give everything a quick toss before serving again!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles are great for meal prep. Just pack the shrimp and zoodles separately to keep them fresh, and combine them when you’re ready to eat. It’s a nutritious lunch option that’s easy to grab!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp if you thaw them properly. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined. Fresh is ideal, but frozen shrimp can work in a pinch without sacrificing too much flavor.
Are there gluten-free options for Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and healthy. Using spiralized zucchini as a substitute for pasta keeps it light and gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at your table!
Final Thoughts
Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and simplicity. Every bite brings a burst of citrus that dances on your palate, reminding you of summer picnics and sunny days. This dish not only nourishes your body but also your soul, bringing loved ones together around the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without all the fuss. I hope you’ll enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do, and savor those joyful moments it creates in your kitchen!
Print
Citrus Grilled Shrimp Zoodles
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and flavorful dish featuring grilled shrimp served on a bed of zucchini noodles tossed in a citrus marinade.
Ingredients
- 1.5 tsp finely grated lime zest (from one medium lime)
- 1.5 tsp finely grated orange zest
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh minced cilantro
- 2 tsp fresh lime juice
- 1.5 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5–0.75 tsp fine sea salt, plus additional for seasoning shrimp
- 0.25 tsp black pepper or chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp honey (optional; excludes Whole30 compliance)
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
- Salt and pepper for shrimp seasoning
- 3–4 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 0.25–0.5 tsp sea salt for sweating zucchini
- Extra fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all marinade ingredients except olive oil in a bowl and whisk or blend on low. Gradually whisk in olive oil to emulsify.
- Reserve 3 tbsp of the marinade and add shrimp to it. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Keep remaining marinade refrigerated for serving.
- Spiralize zucchini into noodles and place in a colander over a bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and let sweat for about one hour. Drain and press out excess moisture with paper towels.
- Heat grill to high and brush grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove shrimp from marinade, shake off excess but keep light coating. Season lightly with sea salt and pepper. Grill shrimp in a single layer, 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.
- Allow shrimp to cool slightly. Toss with zucchini noodles and preferred amount of remaining marinade. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh shrimp.
- Adjust the spice level by using black pepper or chipotle chili powder as desired.
- This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
