Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Citrus-Ginger Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Light and refreshing zucchini noodles tossed with sautéed shrimp and a bright citrus-ginger dressing, perfect for a Whole30 dinner. This whole30 (low carb, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, fresh ginger, minced, garlic cloves, minced 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 250 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: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 250 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, season with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet along with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes. Toss and cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but not soggy.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet, then drizzle with 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp orange zest, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss everything together for 1 minute to combine and heat through.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro over the top before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Citrus-Ginger Dressing 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 Citrus-Ginger Dressing?

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 Citrus-Ginger Dressing?

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 Citrus-Ginger Dressing 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 Citrus-Ginger Dressing low carb?

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

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