Sautéed Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Tomato Basil Sauce

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili flakes, tossed with fresh zucchini noodles and a vibrant tomato basil sauce for a Whole30-compliant, low-carb dinner. This italian-inspired seafood (whole30, low carb) ready in about 30 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: 15 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 large shrimp, season with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 14 oz canned diced tomatoes, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Step 4: Add 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles and toss gently to coat in the tomato sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but not soggy.
  5. Step 5: Return shrimp to the skillet, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Toss everything together and cook for another minute to combine flavors. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 Tomato Basil 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 Tomato Basil 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 Tomato Basil 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 Tomato Basil 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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