Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant stir-fry featuring tender shrimp and spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a fresh cashew basil sauce, perfect for a Whole30-friendly low-carb meal. This asian fusion-inspired whole30 (whole30, low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, spiralized into noodles medium zucchini, packed fresh basil leaves 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 310 calories and feeds 4, 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: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Asian Fusion cuisine 310 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain the soaked 1/4 cup raw cashews and place them in a blender with 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 cup water. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Set the cashew basil sauce aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and the spiralized noodles from 3 medium zucchinis. Toss and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still firm.
  4. Step 4: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, pour in the cashew basil sauce, and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until heated through and coated.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (20 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 Shrimp and Cashew 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 Shrimp and Cashew 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 Shrimp and Cashew Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Cashew Basil Sauce whole30?

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

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