Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Garlic-Citrus Sauce
Light and fresh shrimp sautéed with spiralized zucchini noodles in a bright garlic and citrus-infused olive oil sauce, perfect for a Whole30-friendly dinner. This whole30-inspired whole30 (low carb, whole30) ready in about 20 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 280 calories and feeds 3, 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
- 3 medium, spiralized into noodles zucchini
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté over medium heat for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 3 medium spiralized zucchini noodles, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tsp orange zest, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Toss and cook for 3-4 minutes until noodles are tender but still have some bite.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss with zucchini noodles for 1 minute to combine and warm through.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Garlic-Citrus Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (10 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-Citrus 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 Garlic-Citrus 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 Garlic-Citrus Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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-Citrus Sauce low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.