Name: Japanese Zucchini & Onion Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 medium zucchini, cut into thin ¼-inch strips; 2 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil; 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce (use sugar-free for keto); 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (low sodium preferred); 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; Ground black pepper, to taste; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

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Introduction

This Japanese Zucchini & Onion Stir-Fry is a quick, vibrant dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender-crisp zucchini, sweet caramelized onions, and a savory teriyaki glaze, it’s both flavorful and healthy. Ready in minutes, it’s a delicious way to enjoy simple ingredients with a tasty twist.

This image shows a black cast iron pan filled with cooked vegetables, including thick slices of green zucchini and curved, translucent onion pieces with browned edges. The vegetables have a glossy texture from cooking, and a light layer of seasoning is visible. A light-colored wooden spatula stirs the veggies, its flat surface lifting some of the mix in the middle of the pan. The pan sits on a soft blue cloth, all displayed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 medium zucchini, cut into thin strips (¼-inch thick)
2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 90 seconds. Test by flicking a small droplet of water to ensure it sizzles immediately.
Step 2: Add the sliced onions and stir-fry constantly for 2–3 minutes until softened with golden edges, lowering heat if they brown too quickly.
Step 3: Add the zucchini strips in a single layer if possible. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp and slightly seared, avoiding constant stirring.
Step 4: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour teriyaki sauce and soy sauce into the empty space. Let bubble and thicken for 15 seconds, then toss everything together to coat evenly.
Step 5: Grind fresh black pepper over the stir-fry and cook for 1 more minute to glaze the veggies. Remove from heat promptly to avoid sogginess.
Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously on top while hot for a nutty crunch.

Tips & Variations

For extra umami, replace 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil with sesame oil, adding it at the end to prevent burning.
Use sugar-free teriyaki sauce such as coconut aminos to keep the dish keto-friendly and control sweetness.
Try red onions instead of yellow for a vibrant color contrast.
Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes to enhance their aroma and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture and avoid sogginess. Avoid microwaving for best results.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a stir-fried dish in a white bowl showing two main layers: the base layer has bright green, thickly sliced zucchini pieces with a slightly soft texture, and the top layer consists of translucent, caramelized onion slices mixed with small black sesame seeds, adding a scattered dark contrast. The zucchini and onions are coated in a glossy, light brown sauce that makes them shine, and some finely chopped green herbs are mixed throughout. The bowl sits on a light cloth over a white marbled surface, with soft natural lighting highlighting the different textures and colors perfectly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this stir-fry?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra variety and flavor. Just adjust cooking times to keep vegetables tender-crisp.

What can I substitute for teriyaki sauce?

Use a homemade blend of soy sauce, a touch of sweetener, garlic, and ginger for a simple alternative. For keto options, coconut aminos with added spices work well.