Zucchini Stir Fry

Zucchini Stir Fry is a light, vibrant, and quick-cooking dish that makes the most of fresh summer zucchini. Sautéed with garlic, onions, and a savory soy-based sauce, this simple stir fry is perfect as a side or as the base for a veggie-forward meal. Add your favorite proteins or grains to turn it into a satisfying entrée in under 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in 15 minutes with just a few ingredients.
• Healthy and Fresh: A delicious way to enjoy summer zucchini.
• Great as a Side or Main: Serve it with rice or noodles, or bulk it up with tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
• Customizable: Add extra vegetables, spice, or sauce based on your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Onion, thinly sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce (optional, or use hoisin for vegetarian)
• Toasted sesame oil
• Neutral oil for stir frying (like avocado or canola)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prep the Veggies: Slice the zucchini into half-moons and prepare the onion, garlic, and any other vegetables you plan to include.
2. Heat the Oil: In a wok or large skillet, heat neutral oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add Zucchini and Peppers: Toss in the zucchini (and bell peppers if using). Stir fry for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Add Sauce: Drizzle in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of sesame oil. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
6. Season and Finish: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add tofu, shrimp, or sliced chicken breast.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas for more color and crunch.
• Vegan Friendly: Use hoisin sauce or a vegan oyster sauce alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the stir fry’s crispness.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, reheat it gently in a pan to avoid mushy zucchini.

What kind of zucchini should I use?

Fresh, firm zucchini works best—avoid overly large ones which can be watery and seedy.

Is this stir fry spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes or chili. You can keep it mild or turn up the heat.

Can I make it without oyster sauce?

Absolutely. Use soy sauce and a dash of rice vinegar or hoisin sauce instead.

What’s the best pan for stir frying?

A wok is ideal, but a large nonstick skillet or cast iron pan will also work.

Can I add noodles?

Yes! Toss cooked noodles (like rice noodles or lo mein) into the pan at the end.

Can I freeze zucchini stir fry?

It’s not recommended, as zucchini can become mushy when thawed.

How do I keep zucchini from getting soggy?

Stir fry over high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to keep it crisp.

What can I serve it with?

Serve with steamed rice, jasmine rice, soba noodles, or even on top of a grain bowl.

Can I use yellow squash instead?

Yes, or mix it with zucchini for a more colorful stir fry.

Conclusion

Zucchini Stir Fry is a fast, fresh, and flavorful way to put garden veggies to work. It’s endlessly versatile, pairs with nearly anything, and can be on the table in minutes. Whether served as a side or built into a full meal, it’s a go-to recipe that celebrates simplicity and seasonal ingredients.

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