Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Ginger-Lime Sauce
A light and refreshing stir-fry featuring tender shrimp and crisp zucchini noodles tossed in a tangy ginger-lime sauce, perfect for a Whole30-compliant dinner. This whole30-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, grated fresh ginger root, minced garlic cloves 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 280 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
- 4, spiralized into noodles (about 6 cups) medium zucchini
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger root
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 3 tbsp, divided olive oil
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red chili flakes
- 2, sliced green onions
- 1 tsp, divided sea salt
- 1/2 tsp, divided black pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1.5 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add shrimp to skillet and cook 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1.5 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 6 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to skillet and toss with ginger and garlic for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm.
- Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (if using), and remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt. Return shrimp to skillet, toss everything together for 1 minute to combine and heat through.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Ginger-Lime 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 Ginger-Lime 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 Ginger-Lime 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 Ginger-Lime 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 Ginger-Lime 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.