Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Ginger-Sesame Dressing
A light and vibrant Whole30 stir-fry featuring tender shrimp and zucchini noodles tossed in a zesty ginger-sesame dressing. This asian fusion-inspired whole30 (low carb, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined raw shrimp, finely grated fresh ginger, 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
- 3, spiralized into noodles (about 6 cups) large zucchini
- 1 lb, peeled and deveined raw shrimp
- 1 tbsp, finely grated fresh ginger
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2, thinly sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp 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. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until opaque and pink, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 3 spiralized large zucchinis (about 6 cups) to the skillet along with 3 tbsp coconut aminos and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Toss and cook for 3-4 minutes until zucchini noodles are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Step 4: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir in 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 thinly sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Adjust seasoning with 1/2 tsp sea salt and additional black pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Shrimp and Ginger-Sesame 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 Ginger-Sesame 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 Ginger-Sesame 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 Ginger-Sesame 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 Ginger-Sesame Dressing low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, gluten free, dairy free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.