I invented this dish a few years back when I wanted a flavor-packed dish but didn’t want to go to the grocery store. Definitely a top 5 refrigerator surprise! I call it Thai Inspired Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp.

Thai Inspired Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp

Thai Inspired Zucchini Noodles with Shrimp

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients
  

  • 4 whole Zucchinis
  • EVOO
  • Groud Turmeric
  • 1 pound Shrimp
  • Salt & Pepper
  • 1 whole Lime, juiced
  • 1 Thai Chili or jalapeno
  • 1 Red Pepper
  • Red Chili Flakes
  • 1 can Coconut Milk
  • 2 Scallions
  • Cilantro

Equipment

  • Vegetable peeler or spiralizer

Method
 

  1. Using a vegetable peeler or spiralizer, make zucchini noodles. Avoid peeling the heavy seed core, or you’ll introduce a lot of excess water into your sauce. I prefer the veggie peeler as it makes for a better texture than the spiralizer, which I feel crushes the zucchini too much, releasing excess water.
  2. In a sauté pan, add the EVOO and sauté the garlic until soft.
  3. Add turmeric and toast for about 1 minute.
  4. Add shrimp and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cook the shrimp until they are about 80% cooked through. Since you will be adding them back later, this undercooking avoids overcooking by the end. Remove the shrimp from heat and squeeze lime juice over them.
  6. Chop peppers and sauté in the same pan.
  7. Add red chili flakes and cook for about 1 minute to release their spice.
  8. Pour the can of coconut milk into the mixture and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  9. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for about 5 minutes. You don’t want to overcook, or they will release too much water and make a soggy mess.
  10. Add shrimp to the ‘zoodles’ and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the shrimp are thoroughly cooked.
  11. Plate and garnish with chopped scallion and cilantro.
  12. Depending on your desired spice level, I’ll often serve with a small plate of more turmeric and chili flakes for each guest to up the spicy level per their taste.