Yields: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 small or 3 medium zucchini (ends trimmed)
- 1 lb (about 16-20) jumbo shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails optional)
- 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil
Equipment:
- Spiralizer or vegetable peeler
- Large skillet or wok
- Colander
- Paper towels
Instructions:
Prep the Zoodles:
- Spiralize the zucchini: Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles (“zoodles”). If you don’t have a spiralizer, use a vegetable peeler to create long, wide ribbons.
- Drain the zoodles: Place the zoodles in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle lightly with salt and toss. Let sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to drain excess moisture.
- Pat dry: Remove the zoodles from the fridge and pat them very dry with paper towels.
Prepare the Sauce and Shrimp:
- Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce (or tamari), and sesame oil.
- Divide the sauce: Remove half of the sauce into a smaller bowl and set it aside.
- Marinade the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the remaining sauce and toss to coat well.
Cook and Assemble:
- Cook the shrimp in batches: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add half of the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
- Add sauce to shrimp: Pour some of the reserved sauce over the cooked shrimp.
- Sauté the zoodles: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the zoodles to the hot skillet and cook briefly for 1-2 minutes, just until slightly softened.
- Combine everything: Add the shrimp and remaining sauce to the zoodles and toss to combine and heat through.
Tips:
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
- Adjust spice: If you like things spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Vegetable additions: Feel free to add other stir-fry vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. Sauté them briefly before adding the shrimp.
Enjoy your quick, healthy, and delicious Sweet Chili Shrimp and Zoodles!
