Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato-Basil Sauce
Tender shrimp cooked in a vibrant, Whole30-compliant tomato and basil sauce served over fresh zucchini noodles for a light yet satisfying meal. This whole30-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 35 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, spiralized into noodles medium zucchini, 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 zucchini
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small, finely diced yellow onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 14 oz can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small finely diced yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in 14 oz crushed tomatoes, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, toss 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. In a separate skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove from heat.
- Step 4: Add the shrimp and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves to the tomato sauce, stirring gently to combine. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice.
- Step 5: In the shrimp skillet, quickly sauté 3 spiralized medium zucchini noodles for 2 minutes until just tender but still firm. Divide the zucchini noodles onto plates and spoon the shrimp and tomato-basil sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato-Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 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 Spicy 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 Spicy 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 Spicy 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 Spicy Tomato-Basil Sauce whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.