Smoky Paprika Shrimp Zucchini (Printable)
Tender shrimp in smoky paprika paired with fresh zucchini noodles for a light, vibrant dish.
# List of ingredients:
→ Seafood
01 - 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
→ Vegetables
02 - 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
06 - 1 lemon, cut into wedges
→ Spices & Seasonings
07 - 2 tsp smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
09 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Oils
11 - 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for 10 minutes.
02 - Heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
03 - Arrange marinated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
04 - Add cherry tomatoes to the same skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened and beginning to blister.
05 - Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss gently with tongs for 2-3 minutes. Cook just until warmed through but still crisp-tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - Return cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add chopped parsley and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something youd order at a nice Mediterranean restaurant
- Smoked paprika adds this incredible depth that makes you swear theres some secret ingredient involved
02 -
- Zucchini releases water as it cooks, so I learned to avoid overcrowding the pan and to cook them just until warmed through
- Sprinkling smoked sea salt at the end adds an extra layer of smokiness that takes this dish over the top
03 -
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before marinating to help the spices adhere better
- Preheat your pan properly so the shrimp sear rather than steam, developing those beautiful golden edges