Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Basil Pesto
Low-carb zucchini noodles stir-fried with succulent shrimp and vibrant basil pesto, ready in 15 minutes for a keto-friendly dinner. This italian-inspired keto (low-carb, keto) ready in about 20 minutes blends peeled and deveined shrimp, basil pesto, minced garlic 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 320 calories and feeds 2, 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.
Ingredients
- 3 medium (12 oz total), spiralized into noodles zucchini
- 8 oz, peeled and deveined shrimp
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- 2 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 8 oz shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.
- Step 2: Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in 3 spiralized zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing constantly, until tender-crisp and lightly seared at the edges.
- Step 3: Return shrimp to the skillet, add 3 tbsp basil pesto, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss for 1 minute until pesto coats everything and heats through.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Basil Pesto take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (12 min prep + 8 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 Shrimp and Basil Pesto?
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 Shrimp and Basil Pesto?
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 Shrimp and Basil Pesto 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 Shrimp and Basil Pesto low-carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low-carb, keto based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★★★☆
Almost perfect — just needed a squeeze of lemon at the end.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
