Zucchini stir fry is a speedy weeknight meal bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It’s incredibly versatile and a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden. This easy recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Zucchini: Any type of green zucchini works great. Yellow squash can be substituted.
- Bell Peppers: Use any color you like; red, yellow, or orange add sweetness.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness. Tamari is a good gluten-free option.
- Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a lovely nutty aroma. If you don’t have it, a tiny bit of peanut oil can be used for flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce. Arrowroot powder is a suitable alternative.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
* 2 medium zucchini, cut into half-moon slices or bite-sized pieces
* 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
* 1 small onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (optional, but adds great texture)
* 2 tablespoons cooking oil (like vegetable or canola)
For the Sauce:
* 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
* 2 tablespoons water
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 3-4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, cutting board, knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Vegetables
Wash and chop all your vegetables before you start cooking. Cut the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and broccoli into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. This “mise en place” makes the stir fry go smoothly.
2. Whisk Together the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and water. Whisk everything together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and there are no lumps. Set this aside.
3. Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cooking oil and let it get hot, but not smoking. A good hot pan is key for a successful zucchini stir fry.
4. Stir Fry the Harder Vegetables
Add the sliced onion and broccoli (if using) to the hot pan. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften slightly and become bright green. You want them to have a little crispness left.
5. Add the Remaining Vegetables
Toss in the zucchini and bell pepper slices. Continue to stir fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the zucchini is tender-crisp. Don’t overcook the zucchini, or it will become mushy.
6. Pour in the Sauce
Give your prepared sauce another quick whisk, then pour it over the vegetables in the pan. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. The sauce will thicken quickly as it heats, coating all the vegetables beautifully.
7. Serve Your Zucchini Stir Fry
Remove the pan from the heat immediately once the sauce has thickened. Serve your delicious zucchini stir fry hot, perhaps over a bed of rice or noodles. Enjoy your quick and healthy meal!
Storage Instructions
Store leftover zucchini stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might need to add a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I add protein to this zucchini stir fry?
A: Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef can be added along with the harder vegetables.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh ginger or garlic?
A: You can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger as a substitute, but fresh offers more flavor.
Q: My sauce is too thin/thick. What happened?
A: If it’s too thin, simmer it for another minute. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can chop all the vegetables and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook just before serving for the best results.
Q: Is this zucchini stir fry gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, it will be gluten-free.
Q: What else can I serve with zucchini stir fry?
A: It’s excellent with steamed rice, quinoa, or even just on its own as a light meal.