Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Garlic Tomato Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Light zucchini noodles tossed with sautéed shrimp and a rich, spicy garlic tomato sauce that fits perfectly within Whole30 guidelines. This italian-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, spiralized into noodles medium zucchini, extra virgin 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 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: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté shrimp for 2 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 5 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes and 14 oz canned diced tomatoes. Simmer over medium heat for 8 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 spiralized medium zucchinis to the skillet with tomato sauce. Toss gently and cook for 2-3 minutes until zucchini noodles soften but maintain a slight bite.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together and cook for 1 more minute to combine flavors before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Garlic Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 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 Spicy Garlic Tomato 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 Spicy Garlic Tomato 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 Spicy Garlic Tomato 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 Spicy Garlic Tomato Sauce whole30?

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

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