Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles Flavorful and Light Meal

November 27, 2025July 25, 2025 by Chef Evan

Looking for a quick, tasty meal? Try my Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles! This dish is light yet packed with flavor. Combining fresh zucchini noodles with succulent shrimp, you’ll love the sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for a busy weeknight. Join me as I guide you through this delicious, healthy recipe that celebrates vibrant ingredients and joyful cooking!

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Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Healthy Twist: Using zoodles instead of traditional pasta makes this dish lighter and packed with veggies.
Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is sweet, savory, and adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the shrimp.
Customizable: You can easily swap in different proteins or add more vegetables to suit your taste!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 medium zucchinis (zoodles)

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce Ingredients

– ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Garnishes and Seasoning

– 2 green onions, chopped

– Sesame seeds

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Olive oil for cooking

Creating Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles is simple with these fresh ingredients. Zucchini makes a great base with a light taste. Shrimp adds protein and flavor.

The sauce combines soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. This mix offers a sweet and savory kick.

Topping the dish with green onions and sesame seeds adds texture and brightness. These garnishes make your meal look and taste great.

Use salt and pepper to season the shrimp just right. Olive oil helps cook the shrimp to a perfect finish. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a delicious, balanced meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Zoodles

How do you spiralize zucchini into zoodles? Start by washing the zucchinis. Trim the ends, then use a spiralizer. Twist the zucchini to create long, noodle-like strands. If you don’t have a spiralizer, try a julienne peeler. This tool makes thin strips, similar to zoodles. Both methods work well, so choose what you have on hand.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

How do you make the teriyaki sauce? In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Combine these ingredients until smooth. This sauce brings sweet and savory flavors to the shrimp and zoodles. Adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more honey or maple syrup.

Cooking the Shrimp and Zoodles

How do you sauté shrimp to perfect doneness? Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up. Place the shrimp in the pan. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side. They should turn pink. Flip the shrimp and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until the shrimp are fully cooked and well coated.

How do you integrate the zoodles and sauce for optimal flavor? Add the zoodles to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss them together so the zoodles soak up the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This lets the zoodles become tender while staying slightly crunchy. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Enjoy this light and flavorful meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Teriyaki Flavor

To make your teriyaki sauce shine, you can adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more honey or maple syrup. A little extra sweetness can make the flavors pop. You might also want to enhance the sauce with extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sesame oil can add depth. Experimenting with spices keeps it fun and fresh!

Cooking Zoodles to Perfection

Zoodles can turn mushy if cooked too long. To avoid this, cook them just until tender. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep them a bit crunchy for the best texture. You can also try salting the zoodles before cooking. This helps draw out moisture and keeps them firm. A quick toss in the skillet with olive oil works wonders!

Shrimp Cooking Tips

Cooking shrimp to perfection is key. They should be pink and opaque when done. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. If they curl up tightly, it’s a sign they’re overdone. Keep a close eye on them while cooking for the best results!

Pro Tips

Perfect Zoodles: To keep zoodles from becoming soggy, avoid overcooking them. Just a few minutes in the skillet will ensure they remain crisp and al dente.
Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the shrimp in the teriyaki sauce for about 15-30 minutes before cooking.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. If using pre-minced garlic or ginger, consider reducing the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the garnishes! A sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the taste and texture of the dish.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works well and is a great option. Use boneless chicken breasts for easy cooking. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them in the pan as you would shrimp. Tofu is another good choice. Just press and cube it, then sauté until golden. If you want more seafood, consider scallops or salmon. Both add a rich flavor and pair nicely with teriyaki sauce.

Zoodle Alternatives

While zucchini is popular, other veggies can make tasty zoodles too. Try carrots for a sweet crunch. Spiralized carrots add color and nutrients. Cucumber zoodles are light and refreshing. You can also use sweet potato for a heartier dish. If you prefer noodles, whole grain options work well. Brown rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti can add extra fiber and flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

To spice up your dish, add chili flakes for heat. A pinch will give it a nice kick. If you like more texture, toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. They add color and nutrients. You can also try adding a dash of sesame seeds while cooking for extra crunch. Mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can bring a fresh twist to the dish.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles, first let them cool down. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to avoid adding extra sauce to the leftovers. This helps keep the zoodles from getting soggy.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the zoodles and shrimp. Stir gently until they warm up. This keeps the zoodles crunchy. You can also use a microwave. Just place the zoodles and shrimp in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for about one to two minutes. Check to make sure they are warm throughout.

Freezing Tips

Can you freeze Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the zoodles. Cooked zoodles can become mushy when frozen. To freeze, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. For zoodles, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight. For zoodles, you can cook them directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time.

FAQs

What are zucchini noodles?

Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are thin strips made from zucchini. You can create them using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler. Zoodles are a great low-carb option that adds nutrition to your meals. They are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Eating zoodles can help you feel full without many calories. This makes them perfect for light meals.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free. Simply swap the low-sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Look for tamari sauce, which is made without wheat. You can also use coconut aminos for a different flavor. Both work well in the teriyaki sauce.

How long does the dish last in the fridge?

Teriyaki shrimp zoodles last about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Store the dish in an airtight container. To keep it fresh, let it cool before sealing. Reheat thoroughly before eating. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to throw it out. Always prioritize your safety with food.

This recipe shows you how to make Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles. You start by making zoodles from zucchini and cooking shrimp to a perfect texture. Next, you whip up a quick teriyaki sauce. You can customize flavors with spices or swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. For storage, refrigerate leftovers and note how long they last. With these steps, you can create a tasty, healthy meal. Enjoy your cooking and the fresh flavor

$- 2 medium zucchinis (zoodles) - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 green onions, chopped - Sesame seeds - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for cooking Creating Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles is simple with these fresh ingredients. Zucchini makes a great base with a light taste. Shrimp adds protein and flavor. The sauce combines soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. This mix offers a sweet and savory kick. Topping the dish with green onions and sesame seeds adds texture and brightness. These garnishes make your meal look and taste great. Use salt and pepper to season the shrimp just right. Olive oil helps cook the shrimp to a perfect finish. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a delicious, balanced meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} How do you spiralize zucchini into zoodles? Start by washing the zucchinis. Trim the ends, then use a spiralizer. Twist the zucchini to create long, noodle-like strands. If you don’t have a spiralizer, try a julienne peeler. This tool makes thin strips, similar to zoodles. Both methods work well, so choose what you have on hand. How do you make the teriyaki sauce? In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Combine these ingredients until smooth. This sauce brings sweet and savory flavors to the shrimp and zoodles. Adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more honey or maple syrup. How do you sauté shrimp to perfect doneness? Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat up. Place the shrimp in the pan. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side. They should turn pink. Flip the shrimp and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until the shrimp are fully cooked and well coated. How do you integrate the zoodles and sauce for optimal flavor? Add the zoodles to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss them together so the zoodles soak up the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This lets the zoodles become tender while staying slightly crunchy. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Enjoy this light and flavorful meal! To make your teriyaki sauce shine, you can adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more honey or maple syrup. A little extra sweetness can make the flavors pop. You might also want to enhance the sauce with extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sesame oil can add depth. Experimenting with spices keeps it fun and fresh! Zoodles can turn mushy if cooked too long. To avoid this, cook them just until tender. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep them a bit crunchy for the best texture. You can also try salting the zoodles before cooking. This helps draw out moisture and keeps them firm. A quick toss in the skillet with olive oil works wonders! Cooking shrimp to perfection is key. They should be pink and opaque when done. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. If they curl up tightly, it’s a sign they’re overdone. Keep a close eye on them while cooking for the best results! Pro Tips Perfect Zoodles: To keep zoodles from becoming soggy, avoid overcooking them. Just a few minutes in the skillet will ensure they remain crisp and al dente. Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the shrimp in the teriyaki sauce for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. If using pre-minced garlic or ginger, consider reducing the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish. Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the garnishes! A sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the taste and texture of the dish. {{image_2}} You can switch shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works well and is a great option. Use boneless chicken breasts for easy cooking. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them in the pan as you would shrimp. Tofu is another good choice. Just press and cube it, then sauté until golden. If you want more seafood, consider scallops or salmon. Both add a rich flavor and pair nicely with teriyaki sauce. While zucchini is popular, other veggies can make tasty zoodles too. Try carrots for a sweet crunch. Spiralized carrots add color and nutrients. Cucumber zoodles are light and refreshing. You can also use sweet potato for a heartier dish. If you prefer noodles, whole grain options work well. Brown rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti can add extra fiber and flavor. To spice up your dish, add chili flakes for heat. A pinch will give it a nice kick. If you like more texture, toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. They add color and nutrients. You can also try adding a dash of sesame seeds while cooking for extra crunch. Mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can bring a fresh twist to the dish. To store your Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles, first let them cool down. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to avoid adding extra sauce to the leftovers. This helps keep the zoodles from getting soggy. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the zoodles and shrimp. Stir gently until they warm up. This keeps the zoodles crunchy. You can also use a microwave. Just place the zoodles and shrimp in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for about one to two minutes. Check to make sure they are warm throughout. Can you freeze Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles? Yes, but it's best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the zoodles. Cooked zoodles can become mushy when frozen. To freeze, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. For zoodles, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight. For zoodles, you can cook them directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time. Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are thin strips made from zucchini. You can create them using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler. Zoodles are a great low-carb option that adds nutrition to your meals. They are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Eating zoodles can help you feel full without many calories. This makes them perfect for light meals. Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free. Simply swap the low-sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Look for tamari sauce, which is made without wheat. You can also use coconut aminos for a different flavor. Both work well in the teriyaki sauce. Teriyaki shrimp zoodles last about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Store the dish in an airtight container. To keep it fresh, let it cool before sealing. Reheat thoroughly before eating. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to throw it out. Always prioritize your safety with food. This recipe shows you how to make Teriyaki Shrimp Zoodles. You start by making zoodles from zucchini and cooking shrimp to a perfect texture. Next, you whip up a quick teriyaki sauce. You can customize flavors with spices or swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. For storage, refrigerate leftovers and note how long they last. With these steps, you can create a tasty, healthy meal. Enjoy your cooking and the fresh flavors!$