Sesame Zucchini
Elevate your vegetable game with this quick and flavorful Sesame Zucchini recipe, a perfect balance of simplicity and bold Asian-inspired flavors. Tender zucchini slices are sautéed to perfection in toasted sesame oil, infused with aromatic garlic, and lightly seasoned with soy sauce for a savory umami kick. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nutty depth, while optional red pepper flakes lend a subtle heat for those who crave a touch of spice. Finished with fresh green onion garnish, this versatile dish is ready in just 20 minutes and makes an excellent side dish or a light vegetarian meal when paired with rice or your favorite protein. Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, this sesame zucchini is a must-try for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 stalks green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Slice each zucchini into thin half-moons, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Set a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add the toasted sesame oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sesame oil and garlic.
Cook the zucchini for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender but still slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking to prevent the zucchini from becoming mushy.
Pour in the soy sauce, sprinkle with salt, and stir to combine evenly.
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the zucchini and, if using, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick of heat. Toss everything together gently.
Remove from heat and transfer the sesame zucchini to a serving dish.
Thinly slice the green onions and sprinkle them over the dish as a garnish before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or pair it with rice and protein for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
596 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.4 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 8056 mg | 350% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 65.9 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.8 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.3 g | ||
| Protein | 11.0 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 163 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 1872 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
