Ah, Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai with Shrimp! Just the dish that brings back memories of sunny days spent in my kitchen, experimenting with flavors and exploring healthy options. I fell in love with this recipe when I was on a mission to eat lighter without sacrificing taste. The moment I swapped traditional noodles for zucchini, I knew I was onto something magical—who would have thought you could achieve that classic Pad Thai flavor without all those carbs! Plus, it’s such a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Now, let me tell you, this recipe is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and just a hint of heat from the sauce. It’s quick to whip up on a weeknight, so when you need a delicious dinner in under thirty minutes, this is your go-to! And the best part? You can enjoy it guilt-free and feel fully satisfied. Enough chit-chat, let’s dive into what makes this dish so fabulous!
What’s in Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai with Shrimp?
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” provide a fresh, crunchy base. I love using a spiralizer for this, but a simple vegetable peeler can work in a pinch!
Shrimp: These little guys add a delightful protein punch. I recommend using large shrimp, preferably wild-caught for the best flavor. They cook up perfectly in just a few minutes.
Egg: This adds creaminess and richness to the dish. I like to scramble it right in the pan with everything else!
Peanuts: Crunchy, salty peanuts are a classic topping! They add a great texture contrast and complement the dish beautifully. Just make sure to use unsalted ones for the best flavor balance.
Pad Thai Sauce: A delightful blend of tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice—this is what gives the dish that authentic Pad Thai flavor. You can find bottled options, but making it fresh is worth the few extra minutes!
Green Onions: They add a burst of freshness and a pop of color. I always chop these up just before serving!
Bean Sprouts: These little crunchy wonders provide hydration and a nice textural element. Fresh is best here!
Is Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai with Shrimp Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delicious but also loaded with health benefits.
Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to shed some pounds. It’s also great for hydration since it’s mostly water.
Shrimp is a lean source of protein that helps support muscle health while being low in fat. It’s also a great source of selenium, which is fantastic for your immune system.
The combination of healthy fats from the peanuts and fiber from the bean sprouts makes this dish not only filling but nutritious. Just keep an eye on the Pad Thai sauce; while it’s tasty, it can be high in sodium, so I recommend using low-sodium alternatives when possible.
Ingredients
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized (about 4 cups of zoodles)
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped (unsalted preferred)
– 1/4 cup Pad Thai sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 green onions, sliced
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons oil (peanut or vegetable)
– Lime wedges for serving
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
This recipe serves about 2-3 people, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch!
How to Make Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai with Shrimp?
1. First, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, and add the oil. Once hot, toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble until just cooked. Next, stir in your spiralized zucchini and cook for another 2 minutes until just tender.
3. Toss the cooked shrimp back into the pan along with the Pad Thai sauce. Stir everything to combine well and let it cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Finally, add the green onions and bean sprouts, tossing everything together. Cook for another minute for everything to heat through.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped peanuts and lime wedges on the side. If you like it spicy, don’t forget to sprinkle some red pepper flakes!
Delicious Extras!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. You can also swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces or spices to create your perfect Pad Thai!
Honestly, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It never fails to bring a smile to my face (and to anyone I serve it to!). If you give it a go, please let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking, friends!
