Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with Zucchini

This garlic parmesan sheet pan shrimp with zucchini recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal with minimal effort. The juicy shrimp and tender vegetables roast together on one pan, creating a flavorful dinner that's ready in just minutes.

I created this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet impressive. My family was skeptical about sheet pan dinners until they tasted this one it has become our go to meal when we want something light yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• Fresh extra large shrimp provides the perfect meaty texture and quick cooking time
• Garlic cloves add aromatic flavor that infuses the entire dish
• Olive oil helps everything roast perfectly while adding heart healthy fats
• Parmesan cheese creates a savory crust on the shrimp
• Smoked paprika brings a subtle smoky depth that elevates the seafood
• Black pepper adds just the right amount of spice
• Zucchini and yellow squash add color and nutritional value
• Cherry tomatoes burst in the oven creating a natural sauce
• Fresh basil brightens the entire dish with its aromatic finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Heat your oven to 400°F which is the perfect temperature for quick cooking shrimp while still allowing the vegetables to soften and slightly caramelize.

Create the Flavor Base

Mix minced garlic cloves smoked paprika black pepper grated parmesan and olive oil in a small bowl until well combined. This creates the concentrated flavor paste that will coat and infuse the shrimp.

Season the Shrimp

Pour the garlic parmesan mixture over the prepared shrimp and use your hands to thoroughly coat each piece. Ensure every shrimp gets an even coating for consistent flavor throughout.

Prepare the Vegetables

Toss the sliced zucchini yellow squash and cherry tomatoes with olive oil salt and pepper in a separate bowl. The uniform coin shape helps the vegetables cook at the same rate.

Arrange on Sheet Pan

Spread the shrimp and vegetables in a single layer on your baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding which can cause steaming instead of roasting and prevents proper browning.

Roast to Perfection

Bake for exactly 12 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with slight browning at the edges. The vegetables should be tender but still have some structure.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

Immediately after removing from the oven sprinkle the fresh chiffonade of basil over everything. The residual heat will release the oils in the herbs maximizing their flavor.

Bookmark

This dish reminds me of summers at my grandmothers house where she would combine whatever was fresh from her garden with the seafood my grandfather caught that morning. The simplicity of those meals taught me that the best dishes let quality ingredients shine without overcomplicating things.

Storage and Leftovers

This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the shrimp are perfectly tender and the vegetables have just the right texture. However if you do have leftovers store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Alternatively enjoy the leftovers cold as a protein packed salad by tossing with some fresh greens and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. If you dont have fresh shrimp frozen shrimp works beautifully just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before coating with the seasoning mixture. Bell peppers asparagus or broccoli florets can replace the zucchini and squash with similar cooking times. For a dairy free version substitute nutritional yeast for the parmesan cheese and add a pinch more salt to compensate for the missing umami flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Turn this into a complete meal by serving over cooked orzo pasta quinoa or cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful juices. For a more substantial dinner pair with crusty garlic bread for dipping. To elevate this dish for entertaining add a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving which brightens all the flavors and adds a touch of elegance.

Mediterranean Inspiration

This recipe draws from classic Mediterranean cooking traditions where seafood vegetables and olive oil form the foundation of countless nutritious meals. The combination of garlic parmesan and herbs reflects Italian coastal cuisine while the addition of smoked paprika adds a Spanish influence. Throughout the Mediterranean region sheet pan cooking has been adapted from traditional clay oven methods where foods are roasted together to allow flavors to meld harmoniously.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before coating with the garlic-parmesan mixture. This ensures they roast properly instead of steaming, which helps achieve that perfect texture.

→ What can I substitute for zucchini and yellow squash?

You can substitute with other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, broccoli florets, or green beans. Just cut them to similar sizes to ensure even cooking with the shrimp.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are properly cooked?

Properly cooked shrimp will turn from translucent gray to opaque pink and form a slight C-shape. They should be firm to the touch but still tender. Be careful not to overcook as they can become rubbery quickly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prep all ingredients ahead of time. Prepare the garlic-parmesan mixture and slice vegetables up to a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this sheet pan shrimp dish?

This versatile main dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving, or incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the garlic-parmesan mixture. Red pepper flakes can add heat, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity.