Zucchini Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger Sauce

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

A light stir fry featuring tender shrimp and spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a tangy ginger and cashew sauce, perfect for a Whole30 dinner. This asian-inspired seafood (whole30, low carb) ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined raw shrimp, extra virgin olive oil, freshly grated ginger root 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain 1/4 cup soaked raw cashews and blend with 1/3 cup water, 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1/2 tsp sea salt until smooth to create the cashew ginger sauce. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined raw shrimp to the skillet, stirring occasionally, cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 large spiralized zucchinis (about 18 oz) to the skillet along with 1/4 tsp red chili flakes if using. Toss everything together and pour the cashew ginger sauce over. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until zucchini noodles are just tender but still slightly crisp.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger 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 Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger 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 Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger 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 Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger 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 Noodles Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Cashew Ginger Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, 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.

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