Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew-Free Almond Sauce
A vibrant stir-fry featuring tender shrimp and spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a rich almond butter sauce, perfect for a Whole30-compliant dinner. This asian-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined raw shrimp, unsweetened almond butter, coconut aminos 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 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.
Ingredients
- 3, spiralized into noodles (about 6 cups) large zucchini
- 1 lb, peeled and deveined raw shrimp
- 3 tbsp, unsweetened almond butter
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2, thinly sliced scallions
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp almond butter, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) until smooth; set aside.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 lb peeled and deveined raw shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp sesame oil along with 3 minced garlic cloves and the 6 cups spiralized zucchini noodles. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until noodles are just tender and slightly translucent.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour the almond butter sauce over the mixture. Toss gently for 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew-Free Almond Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 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-Free Almond 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-Free Almond 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-Free Almond 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-Free Almond Sauce whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
Related recipes
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger Sauce
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew-Free Satay Sauce
Whole30 Shrimp Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Zucchini
Stir-Fried Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Ginger-Lime Sauce
Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Vegetables
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
