Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Shrimp
A vibrant, protein-packed meal where spiralized zucchini replaces pasta, tossed with succulent shrimp and garlic in a tangy-savory sauce. This asian-inspired low carb (high protein, dairy-free) ready in about 35 minutes pairs medium zucchini, shrimp, olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini
- 12 oz shrimp
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup, florets broccoli
- 1/2 cup, trimmed snow peas
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Spiralize 2 medium zucchinis into noodles and place in a colander; drain for 10 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2: Season 12 oz peeled and deveined shrimp with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, add shrimp in a single layer, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque; remove and set aside.
- Step 4: Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add 1 cup broccoli florets and 1/2 cup trimmed snow peas; cook for 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Step 5: Return shrimp to skillet, add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; toss to coat and cook for 1 minute until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Add drained zucchini noodles and toss gently for 2-3 minutes until heated through and vegetables are tender-crisp.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Shrimp take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 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 Garlic Shrimp?
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 zucchini from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Shrimp?
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 Garlic Shrimp 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 Garlic Shrimp high protein?
Yes — this recipe is tagged high protein, dairy-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Absolutely perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The garlic and shrimp combo is divine.
- ★★★★★
Easy and delicious. The low carb option made it perfect for my diet. Will make again!
- ★★★★★
My family loved this! The garlic shrimp was so flavorful and the zucchini noodles held up perfectly.