Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp sautéed in a spicy tomato and fresh basil sauce served over vibrant zucchini noodles for a light Whole30 meal. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (low carb, gluten free) ready in about 30 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 260 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 260 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Pour in 14 oz crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 8 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1 tbsp lemon juice, then remove the sauce from heat and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In a separate skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  5. Step 5: Add 3 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the shrimp skillet and toss for 2 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
  6. Step 6: Divide the shrimp and zucchini noodles onto plates and spoon the spicy tomato basil sauce over the top before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato Basil 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 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 low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, gluten free, dairy free, whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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