Description
Zucchini Fried Rice with Walnuts is a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional fried rice. Using zucchini as a low-carb rice substitute and adding toasted walnuts for crunch, this dish is a light yet satisfying meal, full of savory and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchinis (spiralized or grated)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)
- 1/2 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup carrots (diced or shredded)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup walnuts (roughly chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for toasting)
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the chopped walnuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- If using spiralized zucchini, cut the strands into shorter pieces. If grating, use a box grater or food processor to create long strands. Place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, carrots, and peas (if using), cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Add the zucchini to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil (optional), and ground ginger (optional). Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the toasted walnuts and mix to combine. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
For added protein, include cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.For more heat, drizzle with sriracha or add red pepper flakes.Make it vegetarian by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.If using other nuts, almonds or cashews also work well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
