Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Cilantro Dressing

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

Light and vibrant sautéed shrimp tossed with fresh zucchini noodles and a bright lemon-cilantro dressing, perfect for a Whole30-friendly meal. This american-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 20 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic cloves 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: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 American cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are opaque and curled, then remove shrimp from skillet.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and toss in 3 spiralized medium zucchinis with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes until noodles are tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet with zucchini noodles. Add zest and juice of 2 lemons and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Toss gently to combine and heat through for 1 minute.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Cilantro 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-Cilantro 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-Cilantro 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-Cilantro 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-Cilantro 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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