Japanese Zucchini Stir-Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Side Dish
If you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish that packs a punch of flavor, this Japanese Zucchini Stir-Fry is the perfect choice. With just a handful of ingredients and a total cook time of under 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious and healthy dish that’s sure to complement any meal.
🌟 Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium sweet onion, coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
🌟 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini:
- Start by cutting the zucchini into 2-inch long pieces. Then, slice each piece into 6 wedges. This size ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
2️⃣ Heat the Oil:
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the vegetables.
3️⃣ Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped sweet onion and zucchini wedges to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should start to soften and become slightly translucent.
4️⃣ Add the Sauces and Spices:
- Pour in the teriyaki sauce and soy sauce, then sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir everything together and continue to cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. The zucchini should become tender but still retain a slight crunch.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
- Once the zucchini is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top for a bit of extra flavor and a lovely presentation. Serve the dish hot as a side to your favorite main course.
🌟 Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 150 Kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Japanese Zucchini Stir-Fry is the epitome of quick and easy cooking. The combination of teriyaki and soy sauce gives it a savory, slightly sweet flavor, while the red pepper flakes add just a touch of heat. The toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty finish that ties all the flavors together. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra zucchinis you might have from your garden or a recent grocery run.
Whether you’re serving this dish alongside grilled chicken, beef, or tofu, or enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try and add a touch of Japanese-inspired flavor to your next meal!