Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Clams
A light, digestion-friendly stir-fry using spiralized zucchini and fresh clams to prevent bloating during Whole30 transitions. This seafood-inspired whole30 (whole30) ready in about 14 minutes pairs medium, spiralized zucchini, scrubbed littleneck clams, minced garlic clove for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 2, 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
- 2 medium, spiralized zucchini
- 8 oz, scrubbed littleneck clams
- 1, minced garlic clove
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp, chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 minced garlic clove and 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 2: Add 8 oz scrubbed littleneck clams and 2 medium spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss constantly for 3-4 minutes until clams open and zucchini is tender-crisp, shaking the pan gently to avoid breaking noodles.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil until evenly distributed. Serve immediately to preserve the delicate clam flavor and zucchini texture without overcooking.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Clams take to make?
Total time is about 14 minutes (10 min prep + 4 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Clams?
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 medium, spiralized zucchini from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Clams?
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 Clams for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Clams whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Added this to my weekly meal rotation. So satisfying.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
- ★★★★☆
Nice recipe! Presentation was beautiful. Flavor was good, not great.
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