Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter Sauce

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

A vibrant stir-fry of zucchini noodles tossed in a creamy, nutty cashew butter sauce, packed with fresh vegetables and Whole30-compliant ingredients. This asian fusion-inspired whole30 (whole30, vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends large, julienned carrot, medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions 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 280 calories and feeds 3, 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: 10 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp cashew butter, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 3 tbsp water until smooth and creamy.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 julienned large carrot and 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. Step 3: Add 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles and 3 sliced green onions to the skillet. Pour the cashew butter sauce over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until zucchini is just tender but not mushy.
  4. Step 4: Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew Butter Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, vegetarian, 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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