Description
This healthy Chinese Zucchini Recipe is refreshing, nutty, and spicy, and makes a perfect raw side dish or light main meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 4 zucchinis/courgettes, cut into noodles
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons tahini or peanut/almond butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2–3 teaspoons medium or mild chili powder
- 2 teaspoons chili oil
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
1. Use a spiralizer, mandoline slicer, or knife to cut the zucchini into noodle shapes.
2. If using a spiralizer, cut the zucchini noodles into shorter lengths for easier mixing and eating.
3. Toss the zucchini noodles with salt and place them in a colander over the sink or a bowl for 30 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic, coconut aminos, tahini, sesame oil, chili powder, chili oil, and honey or maple syrup to make the sauce.
5. After 30 minutes, gently squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini noodles.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the sauce mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
7. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions if desired, then serve.
Notes
This dish can be prepared the day before for even better flavor.
Do not over-squeeze the zucchini noodles or they may become mushy.
The garlic is raw, so expect a bold garlic flavor.
Add extra chili powder or chili oil for more heat.
Leftovers develop stronger flavor overnight in the refrigerator.
Add cooked diced chicken breast for a more filling meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 524mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg