Description
Spicy Asian Zucchini is a bold, flavorful side dish that pairs tender zucchini with a garlicky, spicy sauce infused with sesame and soy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a quick snack, this dish is simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Zucchini and Topping:
- 5 small or medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
- 3/4 tsp cooking or kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots (store-bought)
- 1 stem green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)
- For the Spicy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp canola oil (neutral oil works best)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tbsp sambal oelek (or substitute with sriracha or chili crisp)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin (or substitute with honey for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini:
- Toss the zucchini halves with 1 tablespoon of canola oil and sprinkle evenly with salt. Ensure all sides are lightly coated.
- Cook the Zucchini:
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place half of the zucchini cut-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the skin side for another 3 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the remaining zucchini.
- Make the Spicy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and allow the pan to cool slightly before adding the oil.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil, then sauté the minced garlic until light golden and aromatic.
- Add sambal oelek, sesame oil, soy sauce, and mirin. Simmer the mixture for 30 seconds until slightly thickened and syrupy.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Drizzle the spicy sauce over the cooked zucchini.
- Top with crispy fried shallots and sliced green onion for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the sambal oelek or add a pinch of red chili flakes.
- Smaller zucchini are more tender and absorb flavors better.
- The crispy fried shallots provide an essential crunch and flavor; don’t skip them!
- This dish can also be made with roasted zucchini for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired