Description
Spicy Asian Zucchini is a bold, quick, and delicious dish packed with smoky caramelized zucchini, spicy chili sauce, and crispy shallots. It’s ready in just 20 minutes and perfect as a side or light meal. Try it for an easy way to spice up your next dinner.
Ingredients
5 small–medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (for zucchini)
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ cup crispy fried shallots
• 1 green onion, finely sliced
Spicy Sauce
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp sambal oelek (or sriracha/chili crisp)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp light or all-purpose soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin (or honey)
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini by tossing the halved pieces in oil and salt until evenly coated.
- Sear them cut-side down until golden brown, then flip and cook the skin side for about 3 more minutes.
- Make the sauce by sautéing minced garlic just until it turns golden—then quickly stir in sambal oelek, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and mirin or honey.
- Finish and serve by pouring the sauce over the cooked zucchini and garnishing generously with crispy fried shallots and fresh green onions.
Pro Tip: Remove the garlic from heat the moment it turns golden to avoid bitterness.
Sauce Tip: Stick to light or all-purpose soy sauce—dark soy is too overpowering and can overwhelm the dish.
Notes
Use only light or all-purpose soy sauce—dark soy is too strong. To reduce heat, use less chili or blend with honey. Avoid overcooking zucchini to maintain texture. Add a splash of water if sauce is too thick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 143 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 3 g