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Shrimp and Zucchini Stir-Fry

This quick and vibrant dish features tender shrimp paired with crisp-tender zucchini, cooked together in a hot skillet to develop smoky edges and bright flavors. The natural sweetness of the shrimp balances the earthiness of zucchini, creating a satisfying, visually appealing dish with a tender bite and caramelized accents. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces large shrimp, peeled and deveined tail-off preferred
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced thinly
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, optional
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Prep all ingredients: pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, thinly slice the zucchini, and mince the garlic. Zest the lemon and cut it in half.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, letting it shimmer and ripple as it heats up.
  3. Place the shrimp in the hot pan, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and start to curl. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the sliced zucchini to the same pan, spreading them out in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to turn golden and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
  5. Push the zucchini to one side of the pan, then add the minced garlic to the empty space. Sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant and slightly softened.
  6. Mix the zucchini and garlic together, then return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss everything gently and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through and fragrant.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stir-fry, sprinkle with lemon zest, and garnish with chopped parsley if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve immediately while hot, with extra lemon wedges if desired.