Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Garlic Basil Pesto

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp quickly sautéed and tossed with fresh zucchini noodles coated in a vibrant garlic basil pesto. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 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 290 calories and feeds 2, 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: 10 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 290 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Pulse until a coarse pesto forms, scraping sides as needed.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 12 oz peeled and deveined shrimp, season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and 3 medium spiralized zucchini noodles, sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes if using, sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet and add the prepared garlic basil pesto. Toss everything together gently and cook for 1 more minute until heated through and coated evenly.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Garlic Basil Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 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 Garlic Basil Pesto?

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 Garlic Basil Pesto?

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 Garlic Basil Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Garlic Basil Pesto 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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