A quick and healthy dish featuring tender zucchini slices sautéed with vibrant vegetables and seasoned with savory spices. This light, flavorful stir fry makes for a delicious side or a simple, nutritious main course.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or thin rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Method
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash the zucchinis and cut them into thin rounds or half-moons. Slice the onion and bell pepper (if using) into thin strips. Mince the garlic.
- Heat the pan: Heat the olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the sliced onion and bell pepper (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the sliced zucchini and garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still crisp. Avoid overcooking so that the zucchini retains some of its crunch.
- Season the stir-fry: Add the soy sauce, sesame oil (optional), rice vinegar or lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup (if using) to the pan. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables evenly in the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Stir for another minute to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry for added crunch (optional). Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish or over rice for a light, healthy meal.
