Quick Zoodle Stir-Fry

This zucchini noodle stir-fry is perfect for a fast, healthy meal. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights and beginner cooks.
Zucchini Noodles: A Healthy Swap
Ditch the pasta and embrace zucchini noodles! They're low-carb, gluten-free, and add a fresh, vibrant twist to your favorite stir-fry recipes. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Get Started
Shrimp Zoodle Stir-Fry: Quick & Easy
Craving seafood? Shrimp cooks in minutes, making it an ideal protein for a speedy weeknight dinner. Toss it with zoodles, your favorite veggies, and a flavorful sauce for a complete meal.
View Recipe
Chicken Zoodle Stir-Fry: Hearty & Flavorful
For a more substantial meal, try chicken! It pairs perfectly with zucchini noodles and a variety of sauces. Add some crunch with nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Try It Now

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
  • 1 pound shrimp or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Air Fryer (optional)
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spiralizer
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Slice the bell pepper and chop the onion and garlic.
  2. Cook Protein (Air Fryer Method): If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Toss shrimp or chicken with a little sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until cooked through.
  3. Cook Protein (Skillet Method): Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp or chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining sesame oil to the skillet. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Zucchini Noodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they are tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become watery.
  6. Combine: Return the cooked shrimp or chicken to the skillet. Add soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and heat through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Helpful Tips

  • Don't overcook the zoodles: They release a lot of water if cooked for too long. Aim for al dente.
  • Pat zoodles dry: After spiralizing, gently pat the zoodles dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  • Use high heat: Stir-fry over high heat to quickly cook the ingredients and prevent the zoodles from becoming soggy.
  • Add sauce at the end: Add the stir-fry sauce towards the end of cooking to avoid diluting it with the zoodles' moisture.

Variations

  • Protein: Substitute shrimp or chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor.
  • Spice: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier dish.
  • Sauce: Experiment with different stir-fry sauces like teriyaki, hoisin, or black bean sauce.