Steak Stir Fry with Zucchini Noodles

Steak Stir Fry with Zucchini Noodles is a vibrant, healthy take on a classic noodle stir fry. Featuring tender steak and a rainbow of vegetables, all brought together with a savory, aromatic sauce. This dish is a feast for your taste buds and a treat for your body. The combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce makes it an ideal choice for a balanced meal. Whether cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish will surely be a hit. This dish is both delicious and packed with nutrients. So, gather your ingredients and stir-fry your way to a delicious and healthy dinner!

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BENEFITS OF SWITCHING OUT TRADITIONAL PASTA FOR ZUCCHINI NOODLES

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1. Lower Calorie Count

Zucchini noodles are significantly lower in calories compared to traditional pasta. One cup of zucchini noodles contains about 20 calories, whereas the same amount of pasta can have upwards of 200 calories. This makes zoodles a great option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake and manage their weight.

2. Rich in Nutrients

Zucchini is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients help boost your immune system, improve skin health, and support overall bodily functions.

3. Low Carb and Gluten-Free

For individuals following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, or for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease, zucchini noodles are an excellent alternative. They provide the satisfaction of a pasta dish without the high carbohydrate content or gluten.

4. Hydration and Fiber

Zucchini has a high water content, helping you stay hydrated. Additionally, zucchini noodles contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.

5. Versatility and Flavor

Zucchini noodles can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic marinara to creamy Alfredo, and even in stir-fries. They readily absorb the flavors of the sauces and seasonings used, making them a versatile ingredient in your culinary arsenal.

6. Ease of Preparation

Making zucchini noodles is quick and simple. You can use a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or even a regular vegetable peeler to create noodle-like strips. This ease of preparation can save you time in the kitchen.

7. Environmental Benefits

Zucchini is a vegetable that can be grown in many climates and often requires fewer resources to cultivate than wheat. By choosing zoodles, you might be making a more sustainable and environmentally friendly choice.

8. Reduce the Risk of Overeating

Traditional pasta is known for being easy to overeat due to its dense calorie content. Zoodles, being lower in calories and high in volume, can help you feel full without the risk of consuming too many calories.

Incorporating zucchini noodles into your meals can be a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy your favorite dishes while reaping numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking to cut down on calories, carbs, or gluten, zoodles provide a satisfying alternative to traditional pasta.

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HOW TO MAKE ZOODLES

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Steak Stir Fry with Zucchini Noodles, often referred to as “zoodles”

A simple process and a healthy way to create a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you spiralize zucchini noodles:

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Materials Needed:

• Fresh zucchini
• Spiralizer (handheld or countertop)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Peeler (optional for peeling the zucchini)

Instructions:

1. Select Fresh Zucchini:
   Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis. Avoid zucchinis that are too large as they can be seedy and watery.
2. Wash the Zucchini:
   Rinse the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
3. Optional Peeling:
   If you prefer, you can peel the zucchini to remove the skin. However, leaving the skin on adds color and additional nutrients to your dish.
4. Trim the Ends:
   Using a knife, trim off both ends of the zucchini to create flat surfaces.
5. Set Up the Spiralizer:
   If you’re using a countertop spiralizer, secure it to the counter following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using a handheld spiralizer, ensure you have a good grip on it.
6. Spiralize the Zucchini:
   • Countertop Spiralizer: Place the zucchini between the blade and the handle. Turn the handle to push the zucchini through the blade, creating noodles.
   • Handheld Spiralizer: Insert one end of the zucchini into the spiralizer and twist it to create noodles.
7. Collect the Noodles:
   As you spiralize, the zucchini noodles will come out the other side. Collect them in a bowl or on a plate.
8. Cooking the Zoodles:
   • Raw: Zoodles can be eaten raw, perfect for salads.
   • Sautéed: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the zoodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still firm (al dente).
   • Boiled: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the zoodles and cook for 1-2 minutes. Drain immediately to prevent overcooking.
9. Serving:
   Serve your zucchini noodles with your favorite sauce, such as marinara, pesto, or Alfredo. You can also add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Avoid overcooking the zoodles, as they can become mushy.
• Pat the zoodles dry with paper towels after spiralizing to remove excess moisture.
• Store unused zoodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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OTHER RECIPE IDEAS:

Zucchini Noodle and Kale Pesto

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Roasted Zucchini and Sweet Potato

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INGREDIENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE STEAK STIR FRY WITH ZUCCHINI NOODLES

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Main Components:

• Steaks: Choose your favorite cuts, such as sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced for quick cooking.
• Broccoli: Fresh florets add a delightful crunch and a boost of vitamins.
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or julienned for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Celery: Adds a refreshing, crisp texture.
• Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to traditional noodles, these spiralized zucchini strands are the perfect base for our stir fry.

Aromatics:

• Garlic: Minced to release its robust flavor.
• Onion: Sliced thinly to balance the flavors with its natural sweetness.

The Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Provides the salty, umami foundation of the sauce.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth.
• Rice Vinegar: For a hint of tanginess to balance the flavors.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness to round out the sauce.
• Grated Garlic: Enhances the aromatic profile.
• Grated Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick.
• Sesame Oil: For a nutty, fragrant finish.
• Red Chili Pepper Flakes: To introduce a subtle heat.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce a perfect consistency.

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HOW TO MAKE IT STEAK STIR FRY WITH ZUCCHINI NOODLES

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1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red chili pepper flakes in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Cook the Steak:
   • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil (vegetable or olive oil).
   • Add the thinly sliced steak to the hot pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the broccoli, carrots, and celery. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine Steak and Vegetables:
   • Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the prepared sauce over the steak and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
   • Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Prepare Zucchini Noodles:
   • Add a splash of oil and heat over medium-high heat in a separate skillet.
   • Add the zucchini noodles and cook for about 2-3 minutes, tossing frequently, until they are just tender but still al dente. Do not overcook them, as they can become mushy.
7. Serve:
   • Divide the zucchini noodles among serving plates.
   • Top with the steak and vegetable stir fry.
   • Garnish with additional red chili pepper flakes or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips:

• Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying happens quickly.
• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and crunch.
• If you prefer, you can also use store-bought zucchini noodles to save time.

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RECOMMENDED RECIPES

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Steak Stir Fry with Zucchini Noodles

Jen Paleracio

This dish is a combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Chinese

Equipment

• Spiralizer
• Skillet
• Spatula
• knife
• cutting board

Ingredients

  

MAIN COMPONENTS:

• 1 pound sirloin steak, flank, or your preferred cut, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
• 2 large zucchinis, spiralized

AROMATICS

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

SAUCE

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, option
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

Instructions

 

• PREPARE THE SAUCE: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, grated garlic, grated ginger sesame oil, and red chili pepper flakes. Set aside.
• COOK THE STEAK: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil (vegetable or olive oil). Add the thinly sliced steak to the hot pan. Cook for about a minute per side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
• COOK THE VEGETABLES: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Saute for about a minute or until fragrant. Add the broccoli, carrots and celery. Stir-fry for about 4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• COMBINE STEAK AND VEGETABLES: Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
• ADD THE SAUCE: Pour the prepared sauce steak and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about a minute.
• PREPARE ZUCCHINI NOODLES: In a separate skillet, add a splash of oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for about 2 minutes, tossing frequently, until they are just tender but still al dente. Do not overcook them, as they can become mushy.
• SERVE: Divide the zucchini noodles among serving plates. Top with the steak and vegetable stir fry. Garnish with additional red chili pepper flakes or sesame seeds if desired.

Keyword Asian inspired, beef and vegetables, easy stir fry, flavorful stir fry, healthy dinner, high protein, low carb recipe, quick meal, steak stir fry, zucchini noodles

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