Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Basil Dressing
Tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and tossed with fresh zucchini noodles, finished in a bright lemon and basil dressing for a fresh Whole30 seafood dish. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 20 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, spiralized medium zucchini, olive oil 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 220 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3, spiralized medium zucchini
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, cooking for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 3 spiralized medium zucchinis. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until just softened but still firm.
- Step 4: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Toss everything gently for 1-2 minutes to combine and warm through before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Basil Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (10 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 Lemon-Basil Dressing?
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 Lemon-Basil Dressing?
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 Lemon-Basil Dressing 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 Lemon-Basil Dressing whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, low carb, gluten 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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