Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew-Free Thai Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant stir-fry of zucchini noodles and colorful vegetables tossed in a savory, nut-free Thai basil sauce perfect for Whole30. This thai-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 27 minutes blends medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper, large, julienned carrot, small, thinly sliced yellow onion 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 180 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: 12 min Serves 3 Thai cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 small thinly sliced yellow onion, 1 medium thinly sliced red bell pepper, and 1 large julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften but retain crunch.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 medium spiralized zucchini noodles, 3 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional), 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently until zucchini noodles soften but do not become mushy.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and fold in 1/2 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves. Serve immediately as a light, flavorful Whole30 compliant meal.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew-Free Thai Basil 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew-Free Thai 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew-Free Thai 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Cashew-Free Thai Basil 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-Free Thai Basil Sauce whole30?

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

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