Zucchini Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that highlights the delicate taste and texture of fresh zucchini. This vibrant stir-fry is packed with crisp zucchini, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all sautéed in a savory sauce that brings everything together. The addition of garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil adds depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds gives a nice crunch. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a light vegetarian main course that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or julienned
- 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil (or sesame oil) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the zucchini to the pan and continue to stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), rice vinegar or lime juice, honey (if using), and black pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the vegetables and the flavors to meld together.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot as a side dish with rice, quinoa, or as part of a larger meal.
Zucchini Stir-Fry is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that showcases the mild flavor of zucchini, while offering a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its savory sauce and crisp veggies, it’s a perfect addition to any weeknight meal or a delicious side for grilled meats.
