This Chinese Zucchini Recipe is a refreshing, nutty, and spicy dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Made with fresh zucchini noodles and a punchy garlic-chili sauce, it works beautifully as a light side dish or a simple plant-based main.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, spicy, and deeply savory
- Quick, no-cook option for maximum nutrition
- Naturally dairy-free and halal-friendly
- Easy to customize with your favorite protein
- Perfect as a side dish or light meal
Ingredients
- 4 zucchinis or courgettes, cut into noodles
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons tahini or peanut or almond butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2–3 teaspoons mild or medium chili powder
- 2 teaspoons chili oil
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Spiralize the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer, mandoline, or knife. Cut long strands into shorter pieces for easier mixing.
- Toss zucchini with salt and place in a colander for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Gently squeeze excess liquid from the zucchini, then add to the bowl.
- Toss well to coat evenly. This Chinese Zucchini Recipe can be served raw or lightly stir-fried for 2–3 minutes if preferred.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- For a cooked version, stir-fry briefly over medium heat to keep zucchini crisp.
- Adjust chili oil and powder to control heat.
- Peanut butter gives a richer taste; tahini keeps it lighter.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
Details
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook or Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, dairy-free, vegan option
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
- Serve alongside rice, noodles, or grilled protein.
- Swap honey for maple syrup to keep it fully vegan.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fat: 6 g
FAQ
Can I cook this recipe?
Yes, a quick stir-fry enhances flavor while keeping texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s moderately spicy, but easy to adjust.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but can be prepped a few hours ahead.
What protein works best with this dish?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu pair well.
Can I use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?
Yes, but coconut aminos keep it lighter and soy-free.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store up to 2 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Not recommended
- Reheating: Lightly warm in a pan if cooked
Similar Recipes
Chinese Zucchini Recipe – Spicy Garlic Zucchini
Ingredients
- 4 zucchinis or courgettes cut into noodles
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sauce
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons tahini or peanut or almond butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 –3 teaspoons mild or medium chili powder
- 2 teaspoons chili oil
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup optional
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Spiralize the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer, mandoline, or knife. Cut long strands into shorter pieces for easier mixing.
- Toss zucchini with salt and place in a colander for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Gently squeeze excess liquid from the zucchini, then add to the bowl.
- Toss well to coat evenly. This Chinese Zucchini Recipe can be served raw or lightly stir-fried for 2–3 minutes if preferred.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
- Serve alongside rice, noodles, or grilled protein.
- Swap honey for maple syrup to keep it fully vegan.
Conclusion
This Chinese Zucchini Recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver bold, satisfying flavor. Whether served raw or lightly cooked, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.