Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Basil Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Quick sautéed shrimp served over zucchini noodles tossed in a fresh tomato and basil sauce, perfect for a light Whole30 seafood dinner. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes pairs large shrimp, zucchini, cherry tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 270 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a Whole30 week and pairs well with roasted sweet potato or a simple olive-oil salad. 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.

★ 4.3 (15 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 270 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 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 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down and create a chunky sauce.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and optional 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Sauté shrimp for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
  3. Step 3: Remove shrimp and tomato sauce mixture to a bowl. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 3 spiralized medium zucchinis. Sauté zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp and tomato sauce to the skillet, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, and gently toss all together for 1 minute to combine and heat through. Serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Basil Sauce?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep large shrimp from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and 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 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 Tomato Basil Sauce whole30?

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

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