Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Light sautéed shrimp tossed with fresh zucchini noodles and a vibrant cherry tomato basil sauce makes a refreshing and compliant Whole30 seafood dish. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil leaves 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 Mediterranean 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 seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 3 minced garlic cloves, sauté over medium heat for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles, 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp sea salt with 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss gently and cook 2-3 minutes until zucchini noodles are just tender but still firm.
  4. Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet, add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if using, and toss everything together for 1 minute until heated through.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

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

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

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