Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Sauce
Tender shrimp quickly sautéed and tossed with zucchini noodles coated in a vibrant sun-dried tomato and fresh basil sauce. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, packed and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil leaves 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 320 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, peeled and deveined large shrimp
- 3 medium, spiralized into noodles (about 4 cups) zucchini
- 1/3 cup, packed and chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through, then transfer shrimp to a plate.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and tomatoes soften.
- Step 3: Add 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the skillet. Toss gently and cook for 3-4 minutes until noodles soften but retain slight bite.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together and cook for another minute to combine flavors.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Sauce 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried 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 Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Sauce whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.