Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-Tomato Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp sautéed and served over fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant basil-tomato sauce, perfect for a light Whole30 meal. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, 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 290 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 Mediterranean cuisine 290 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, season with 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, if using. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly golden, then remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 medium spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss gently and cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but not mushy.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil leaves and the cooked shrimp. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss all ingredients together and serve immediately.

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-Tomato 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 with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-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 with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-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 with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-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 with Zucchini Noodles and Basil-Tomato Sauce whole30?

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

Related recipes