Zucchini Stir Fry
This dish has all the best qualities — it's light, fresh, and packed with flavor. What’s even better is how easily you can adjust the ingredients. If you’ve got a garden overflowing with zucchini or picked up a few at the store on sale, this stir fry makes the perfect way to use them up.
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Garlic Press
- Grater
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced into half-moons
- 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 1/2 cup snap peas optional
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce optional, for sweetness
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ginger grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or green onions chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
- Start by washing and slicing all the vegetables. Cut the zucchini into half-moons, slice the bell pepper, onion, and carrot, and mince the garlic.
- If you're using snap peas, trim the ends off.
- Grate the ginger if you’re using fresh ginger for added flavor.
- Tip: Make sure all your veggies are sliced to similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil).
- Wait for the oil to shimmer in the pan before adding the veggies. This will ensure they cook evenly and don’t get soggy.
- Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step — give the oil time to heat up properly before tossing in the veggies. The high heat is what makes the stir fry crisp and vibrant.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies
- Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the pan. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and carrot to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the oil.
- Be patient while stirring — this is where the magic happens! Allow the veggies to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but still have some crunch.
- Pro Tip: If you're using snap peas, add them in the last 2-3 minutes so they stay crisp and fresh.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
- Once the veggies are cooked to your liking, it’s time to add the sauces. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
- Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the veggies perfectly.
- Pro Tip: Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning. If you like it saltier, add a little extra soy sauce, or if you prefer it sweeter, add a little more hoisin sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Once the stir fry is done, transfer it to serving plates or a bowl.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately on its own or over a bed of rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Notes
Estimated Nutritional Value (per serving)
- Calories: ~150–180 kcal
- Protein: ~3–4g
- Fat: ~8–10g
- Carbohydrates: ~15–18g
- Fiber: ~3–4g
- Sugars: ~5–7g
- Sodium: ~400–600mg (depending on soy sauce and hoisin brands)
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.