Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp quickly sautéed with fresh zucchini noodles and tossed in a vibrant avocado cilantro sauce for a light, Whole30-compliant meal. This whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, divided sea salt, ground black pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb large shrimp with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  2. Step 2: Add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a blender, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 2 tbsp water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Add 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the same skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
  5. Step 5: Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with zucchini noodles and avocado cilantro sauce until everything is evenly coated and warmed through, about 1 minute. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Cilantro Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, low carb, gluten free, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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