Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Lemon-Tarragon Dressing
Light and fresh sautéed shrimp tossed with spiralized zucchini noodles and bright lemon-tarragon dressing for a Whole30-compliant seafood dish. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3, spiralized into noodles medium zucchinis
- 3 tbsp, freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp, finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh tarragon, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified. Set aside.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, season with 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add the spiralized noodles from 3 medium zucchinis and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender, stirring frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet with zucchini noodles. Pour the lemon-tarragon dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine and warm through for 1 minute.
- Step 5: Serve immediately garnished with extra tarragon leaves if desired.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Lemon-Tarragon Dressing 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 Lemon-Tarragon Dressing?
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 Lemon-Tarragon Dressing?
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 Lemon-Tarragon Dressing 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 Lemon-Tarragon Dressing 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.