Citrus Grilled Shrimp with Zoodles Recipe

Step-by-step instructions

Start by blending all dressing ingredients—lime zest, orange zest, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, orange juice, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Use a low-speed blender or whisk until fully combined.
Pour the dressing into a container, making sure to reserve 3 tablespoons for marinating the shrimp.
Add the shrimp to the reserved marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors soak in.
Spiralize the zucchini into noodles and place them in a colander over a bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt to draw out the excess water. Allow them to sweat for about an hour, then drain and press out any remaining moisture with paper towels.
Preheat your grill to high heat and lightly brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Take the shrimp out of the marinade, shaking off the excess while keeping a light coating. Season lightly with sea salt and pepper. Place the shrimp in a single layer on the hot grill, ensuring they don’t touch.
Grill each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Be cautious not to overcook them!
Let the grilled shrimp cool slightly, then toss them with the zucchini noodles and your desired amount of remaining dressing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Best ways to enjoy it

When serving your Citrus Grilled Shrimp with Zoodles, consider pairing it with a light side salad or grilled vegetables. A crisp, refreshing glass of white wine or a mocktail would perfectly complement the dish’s citrusy flavor. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for an added crunch!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the zoodles mushy. Instead, give them a quick sauté in a non-stick skillet for best results.

Helpful cooking tips

To avoid watery zoodles, make sure to salt them and press out any moisture as specified. This will keep your dish from becoming soggy.
If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-spiralized zucchini available in grocery stores—not only does this save time, but it simplifies prep.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the shrimp overnight, giving them even more depth.

Creative twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:

Add a splash of coconut aminos or tamari for a more savory depth.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint instead of cilantro for a unique twist.
Combine various seafood with the shrimp—scallops or fish can also work wonderfully in this dish.
For a bit of heat, use chili flakes or fresh minced jalapeños.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, but don’t forget to allow an hour for marinating the shrimp.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade the day before and marinate the shrimp in advance. Just keep the zoodles fresh until it’s time to serve.

Will this dish freeze well?
While shrimp can technically be frozen, zoodles don’t fare as well. It’s best to eat this dish fresh or within a few days for optimum taste and texture.