Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Cherry Tomato Sauce
Succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and fresh cherry tomatoes served over spiralized zucchini noodles for a light Whole30 meal. This whole30-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 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 320 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 medium (about 6 cups spiralized) zucchini
- 2 cups, halved cherry tomatoes
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1.5 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, season with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices, forming a light sauce.
- Step 3: Add 6 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss and cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but still firm.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet, add 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, tossing gently to combine and heat through for 1 minute. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Cherry 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 Cherry 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 Cherry 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 Cherry 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 Cherry Tomato Sauce 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.