This Whole30 Shrimp Lo Mein is a flavorful, low-carb take on the classic Chinese dish. It uses hearts of palm noodles (or any vegetable noodle) instead of traditional wheat noodles, and is gluten-free, paleo, dairy-free, keto-friendly, and Whole30 compliant.
I’ve always loved Chinese takeout, but many dishes aren’t suitable for gluten-free or elimination diets. This Shrimp Lo Mein delivers the comforting flavors and texture of the original while staying compliant with Whole30 and similar plans. Hearts of palm spaghetti (or any spiralized veggie noodle) provides a noodle-like texture that works surprisingly well in this recipe.
Ingredients
This recipe is flexible — swap proteins or make it vegetarian by increasing the vegetables. The amounts below serve about 4 people.
- 2 packages (about 3 cups) hearts of palm spaghetti or 3 cups of your preferred veggie noodles
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 8 oz coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 green onions, chopped, white and green parts separated
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Thaw the shrimp (if frozen), remove tails, and pat dry. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp with a pinch of salt and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil to the skillet. Sauté the white parts of the green onions, minced garlic, and diced red pepper for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the coleslaw mix and stir for 2–3 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but still has a bit of crunch.
4. Add the hearts of palm noodles directly to the pan (draining is optional depending on the brand). In a small bowl, whisk the coconut aminos, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper together. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything to combine and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra coconut aminos if desired.
6. Serve topped with the green parts of the chopped green onions. Enjoy while hot.
Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian option: omit shrimp and add extra mushrooms, tofu, or more shredded vegetables.
- Protein swaps: chicken, thinly sliced beef, or pork work well — adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Noodle options: zucchini noodles, shirataki, or spaghetti squash are good alternatives if you prefer.
- Heat level: increase or decrease crushed red pepper to match your taste.
If you make this Shrimp Lo Mein, tag @maryswholelife on Instagram to share your photo!
Other Asian-inspired Whole30 recipes to try
Whole30 Shrimp Fried Rice
Asian-Inspired Pork Meatball Bowls
Happy cooking!
xo,
Mary
This post contains affiliate links, which help support Mary’s Whole Life at no extra cost to you.
Whole30 Shrimp Lo Mein
Cook: 10 mins |
Total: 20 mins |
Yield: 4 people
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
- 2 packages hearts of palm spaghetti (or 3 cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 8 oz coleslaw mix
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Thaw and pat shrimp dry. Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet. Cook shrimp with a pinch of salt 1–2 minutes per side until opaque; remove and set aside.
- Add remaining sesame oil, then sauté the white parts of the green onions, garlic, and red pepper for 1–2 minutes.
- Add coleslaw mix and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add hearts of palm noodles. Mix coconut aminos, ginger, and red pepper flakes; pour over the pan. Return shrimp and toss to combine. Top with green onion greens and serve.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 226 kcal | Carbohydrates: 11 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 9 g | Fiber: 2 g
Did you make this? Rate and comment below, and tag @maryswholelife on Instagram to share your version.