Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato Sauce

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

Tender shrimp quickly stir-fried and served over fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant, Whole30-compliant spicy tomato sauce. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 27 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, no added sugar canned diced tomatoes, 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 290 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: 12 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 290 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined large shrimp seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir-fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 cup canned diced tomatoes and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Step 3: Add 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles and 1/2 tsp sea salt to the skillet. Toss gently and cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but not mushy.
  4. Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to skillet and toss with zucchini noodles and sauce. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato 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 Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato 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 Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato 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 Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Spicy Tomato 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.

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