Healthy Easy Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry (Print view)

Fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a tangy peanut sauce with crisp vegetables, ready in minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized (about 6 cups)
02 - 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
03 - 1 large carrot, julienned or spiralized
04 - 1 cup snap peas, trimmed and halved
05 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Peanut Sauce

07 - 1/3 cup natural peanut butter, smooth or crunchy
08 - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
09 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
10 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
11 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
12 - 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
13 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
15 - 2 to 4 tablespoons warm water
16 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

→ Garnish

17 - 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, chopped
18 - Additional cilantro or green onions for serving

# How-To Steps:

01 - Spiralize zucchinis and carrots. Slice bell pepper thinly, trim and halve snap peas, and thinly slice green onions. Chop cilantro and set all vegetables aside.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Start with 2 tablespoons of warm water and add more gradually, 1 tablespoon at a time, until sauce reaches smooth, pourable consistency.
03 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of sesame oil if desired for enhanced flavor.
04 - Add bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but retain slight firmness.
05 - Add spiralized zucchini noodles and toss gently for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent noodles from becoming soggy.
06 - Pour prepared peanut sauce over all vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is warmed through.
07 - Remove from heat immediately. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve at once.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes.
  • Light yet satisfying with fresh spiralized zucchini noodles.
  • Nutritious and diet-friendly: vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
  • Rich, creamy peanut sauce with a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors.
  • Versatile and customizable with optional garnishes and protein add-ons.
02 -
  • Start with 2 tablespoons of warm water in the peanut sauce, then add more gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.
  • Avoid overcooking zucchini noodles to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Go back