Description
Silky Japanese zucchini reveals delicate Asian-inspired flavors with a perfect blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Crisp vegetables meet umami-rich seasonings, creating a light side dish that brings Japanese culinary elegance to your plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 3 medium zucchini (around 340 grams / 12 ounces)
- 1 medium sweet onion, coarsely chopped
Sauces and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) vegetable oil
Seasonings:
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare zucchini by cutting into 2-inch long segments, then carefully slice each segment into thin, uniform wedges to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Warm vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and becomes glossy, indicating it’s ready for sautéing.
- Gently introduce chopped zucchini and sliced onions into the heated skillet, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even browning for approximately 2 minutes.
- Enhance the vegetable mixture by drizzling teriyaki sauce, pouring soy sauce, sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes, and adding freshly ground black pepper to infuse robust Asian-inspired flavors.
- Continue cooking the seasoned vegetables for 4-5 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together and develop a rich, caramelized exterior while maintaining a slight crispness.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the zucchini with a delicate sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, adding a nutty crunch and visual appeal before serving immediately.
Notes
- Zucchini must be fresh and firm for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Slice wedges uniformly to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Sautéing at medium-high heat helps develop golden edges and caramelized surfaces.
- Teriyaki and soy sauce combine for a rich, umami-packed seasoning profile.
- Crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that enhances the dish’s complexity.
- Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty, aromatic finishing touch that elevates the entire recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg