Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew-Free Satay Sauce
A colorful, Whole30-friendly stir-fry of tender shrimp and zucchini noodles tossed in a rich, nut-free satay sauce made from coconut milk and spices. This asian-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 27 minutes blends peeled and deveined raw shrimp, full-fat coconut milk, Whole30-compliant red curry paste 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 3, 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
- 12 oz, peeled and deveined raw shrimp
- 3 large, spiralized into noodles (about 6 cups) medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp, Whole30-compliant red curry paste
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp tamari (gluten-free soy sauce alternative)
- 2 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp fresh, grated ginger
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 stalks, sliced thin green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh, chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 tsp, divided sea salt
- 1/2 tsp, divided black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk, 2 tbsp red curry paste, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tbsp tamari until smooth and set aside as satay sauce.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 12 oz peeled and deveined raw shrimp seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, cooking for 2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4: Add spiralized noodles from 3 large zucchinis and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Toss gently and cook for 3-4 minutes until noodles soften slightly but remain al dente.
- Step 5: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour the prepared satay sauce over everything. Toss to coat and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp and noodles.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Cashew-Free Satay Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 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 Satay 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 Satay 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 Satay Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Satay Sauce whole30?
Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, 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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