Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame
A vibrant and quick stir-fry combining tender shrimp with crunchy vegetables and zucchini noodles tossed in a savory sesame sauce. This asian-inspired keto (low carb) ready in about 22 minutes pairs peeled and deveined large shrimp, zucchini noodles, medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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
- 4 cups zucchini noodles
- 1 medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 3 stalks, sliced green onions
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque; remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add 1 medium thinly sliced red bell pepper and 3 sliced green onions, stir-frying for 3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Step 5: Stir in 4 cups zucchini noodles and 2 tbsp soy sauce, tossing for 2 minutes until noodles soften but remain firm.
- Step 6: Return shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if using, tossing gently to combine and warm through.
- Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame take to make?
Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 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 Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame?
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 zucchini noodles from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame?
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 Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame 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 Shrimp Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Sesame low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
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