Name: Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Butter (Substitution: Use olive oil for a dairy-free version.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is best for flavor.); 0.5 cup White Wine or Broth (Substitution: Use vegetable broth for a lighter option.); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional; omit for a milder taste.); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Use freshly squeezed for the best taste.); 1 tablespoon Lime Zest (Use fresh zest for maximum flavor.); 16-24 jumbo Shrimp (Ensure they are shelled and deveined.); 2 medium Zucchini (Spiralize or use a vegetable peeler to create noodles.); 0.5 cup Cilantro (Chopped) (Substitution: Use Italian flat-leaf parsley for those who dislike cilantro.); Salt (Adjust to taste.); Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

The sizzling sound of shrimp dancing in a buttery lime sauce instantly transports me to sun-soaked summer evenings, where every bite feels like a celebration. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles—a delightful, quick-and-easy meal that packs a punch of flavor while keeping things light and healthy. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this gluten-free, low-carb dish that’s not only a showstopper for dinner parties but also perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade. Fresh zucchini noodles replace traditional pasta, adding a nutritious twist to classic scampi. Who else is ready to dive into this refreshing meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious?

Why is this dish a must-try?

Flavor-Packed Delight: The marriage of buttery richness and zesty lime creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary.

Quick and Easy: Whip up this meal in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for dinner guests.

Healthy Twist: Using zucchini noodles instead of pasta not only keeps this meal low-carb but also adds a delightful crunch, lighter than traditional scampi.

Customizable Goodness: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your preferences or add colorful veggies, enhancing both the nutrition and aesthetic appeal—just like my Summer Corn Zucchini recipe!

Crowd-Pleaser: Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish is bound to impress both family and friends alike, making it a go-to favorite.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi Ingredients

• Get ready to bring the flavors of summer to your table with these fresh ingredients!

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds rich flavor and helps create a beautifully emulsified sauce. Substitution: Use olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Fresh garlic is best for flavor, enhancing the scampi.
White Wine or Broth – Essential for deglazing the pan, bringing out the flavors. Substitution: Use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a dash of heat and spice. Substitution: Omit for a milder taste or use crushed black pepper instead.
Lime Juice – Brightens the flavor and amplifies the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Use freshly squeezed for the best taste.
Lime Zest – Gives an extra zing and aromatic punch. Use fresh zest for maximum flavor.

For the Shrimp

Jumbo Shrimp (16-24) – The star of the dish, providing tender and juicy bites. Note: Ensure they are shelled and deveined for convenience before starting.

For the Zoodles

Zucchini – Serves as a low-carb alternative to pasta. Preparation: Spiralize or use a vegetable peeler to create noodles.

For Seasoning

Cilantro (Chopped) – Adds a fresh herbaceous flavor that pairs wonderfully with lime. Substitution: Use Italian flat-leaf parsley for those who dislike cilantro.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors. Adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes frothy. Once the butter is ready, add the shelled and deveined jumbo shrimp to the pan, cooking for 2 minutes on one side. When they turn pink and opaque, flip the shrimp and continue to cook for an additional minute. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside, keeping them warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in ½ cup of white wine (or broth) along with the juice of one lime to deglaze the pan. Use a spatula to scrape up any delicious brown bits left from cooking the shrimp. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly while the aroma fills your kitchen. This step builds a flavorful base for your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini Noodles
Next, add your freshly spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, gently tossing them to coat in the sauce. Cook for around 2 minutes, just until the noodles are tender but still have a slight crunch. This quick sauté helps them soak up the vibrant flavors without becoming mushy. Season the zoodles with salt and pepper to taste, keeping the dish light yet delicious.

Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the zest of one lime and a handful of chopped cilantro. Toss everything together in the pan until the shrimp are heated through and well coated in the buttery sauce, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat, ensuring every bite is infused with zesty goodness, while the fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor.

What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi

Create a delightful and complete dining experience by pairing your dish with these perfect accompaniments.

Creamy Avocado Salad: This refreshing salad adds a subtle creaminess that balances the zesty flavors of scampi beautifully. Toss sliced avocado with lime juice and cilantro for a quick side.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a classic choice for mopping up that delicious sauce. Its rich texture perfectly offsets the lightness of zucchini noodles.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa with toasted nuts and fresh herbs provides a satisfying nutty flavor and additional protein, making it a wholesome and hearty side.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender, lightly charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a smoky flavor that complements the citrus notes of the shrimp scampi wonderfully.
Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy coleslaw adds refreshing crunch, contrasting the tender shrimp and zoodles, while the vinegar dressing enhances the dish’s brightness.
Mango Salsa: Vibrant and sweet, mango salsa introduces a tropical note that pairs delightfully with the shrimp’s citrusy zing and adds a burst of color to your plate.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrus-infused cocktail enhances the dining experience, echoing the refreshing lime notes of the dish.
Key Lime Pie: For dessert, this sweet-tart pie wraps up your meal with a delicious nod to the lime theme—its creamy texture will leave everyone satisfied.

How to Store and Freeze Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the shrimp scampi for up to 1 month. Freeze without the zucchini noodles to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet to warm through, adding a splash of fresh lime juice for brightness.

Airtight Storage: Always ensure the container is sealed tightly to keep the flavors intact and prevent freezer burn on any remaining Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein experience. This not only accommodates different tastes but also adds variety to your meal.
Herb Twist: Replace cilantro with fresh basil for a fragrant variation, or omit herbs entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor profile. You’d be amazed at how each herb brings its own charm to the dish!
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate bell peppers or cherry tomatoes alongside zucchini for added color and nutrition. This not only boosts the dish’s visual appeal but also brings in sweet, succulent bites!
Extra Heat: For a spicy kick, increase red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the sauté. This spicy twist can be perfect if you’re a heat lover!
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with a touch of toasted sesame oil in the final toss for a nutty finish that brings a unique depth to this classic dish. The warmth will elevate your flavors to new heights!
Creamy Touch: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut cream toward the end for a richer sauce that coats every noodle beautifully. This option adds a luscious creaminess you won’t want to miss!
Pasta Alternative: Swap zucchini noodles for spaghetti squash for a different texture and taste that still keeps things gluten-free. It’s a fun twist that lets you enjoy a traditional feel with a healthy spin!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my recipes for Baked Zucchini Chips or Coconut Lime Fish for additional flavor ideas!

Make Ahead Options

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the zucchini noodles (zoodles) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The shrimp can also be marinated in lime juice and spices up to 3 hours ahead of cooking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep the shrimp and zoodles separate until you’re ready to cook to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions, finishing by combining everything in the buttery sauce, and you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi

Perfect Shrimp Texture: Ensure shrimp are not overcooked; they should be opaque and just firm to the touch, avoiding a rubbery texture.

Uniform Zoodles: Use a spiralizer for consistent thickness in zucchini noodles, ensuring even cooking across the dish for the best Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi.

Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and lime juice for a more vibrant and aromatic sauce; these ingredients elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Mind the Heat: If using red pepper flakes, start with a small pinch and adjust to your heat preference, ensuring a balanced taste without overpowering the dish.

Toss Gently: When combining shrimp and zoodles, toss gently to coat without breaking the noodles, preserving their lovely texture and presentation.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using jumbo shrimp (16-24 count), as they provide a great balance of tenderness and juicy flavor. Make sure they are shelled and deveined for convenience. If you’re looking for a different protein, chicken or tofu can also work beautifully in this recipe!

How do I store leftovers from this dish?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat in a skillet to prevent the shrimp from overcooking, which can make them rubbery. Enjoying it fresh is always the best option, but if you have to save some, make sure to check the aroma and look for any changes in color or consistency before you dig in.

Can I freeze Cilantro Lime Shrimp Scampi?
While it’s not ideal to freeze this dish due to the zucchini noodles, you can certainly freeze the shrimp scampi portion (without the zoodles) for up to 1 month. To do this, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.

What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
Very! If you find your shrimp have become overcooked and turned rubbery, there’s not much you can do to reverse that texture. However, to prevent this in the first place, be sure to cook your shrimp only until they are just opaque and firm to the touch—about 2-3 minutes in total. Keeping a close eye while cooking will help you maintain that succulent quality.

Are there any allergy considerations for this dish?
Of course! Since this recipe contains shrimp, those with shellfish allergies should definitely avoid it. Additionally, if you need a dairy-free option, simply substitute butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. This dish is gluten-free as written, but always check your ingredients, especially with broth, to ensure it meets your dietary needs. If cooking for pets, be cautious as shrimp and seasonings can be harmful to some animals.