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In the realm of quick and nourishing meals, Zesty Zucchini Fried Rice emerges as a standout dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also aligns with various dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for many. This vibrant dish appeals to vegetarians and vegans alike, providing a delightful medley of flavors and textures while being packed with nutrients. With its ease of preparation, Zesty Zucchini Fried Rice is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, ensuring that you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.

Zucchini Fried Rice

Discover the vibrant taste of Zesty Zucchini Fried Rice, a healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful recipe incorporates fresh zucchini and a colorful mix of vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Ideal for busy weeknights, it comes together quickly and can be customized to suit different dietary preferences. Enjoy a low-calorie dish that guarantees flavor and satisfaction, all while celebrating the joys of cooking with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, grated

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old for better texture)

1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced (a colorful blend of red, yellow, and green)

1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

3 green onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: 1 egg (for non-vegan version)

Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Ingredients: Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. To remove excess moisture, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze firmly to discard any liquid. This step ensures that your fried rice doesn’t become overly wet.

    Cook the Eggs (Optional): If you choose to include an egg, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Drizzle a bit of olive oil into the pan, crack the egg in, and scramble until it is just set and no longer runny. Remove the scrambled egg from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.

        Add Zucchini and Peppers: Next, introduce the grated zucchini and diced bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the zucchini is tender yet still retains some crunch, and the peppers become slightly softened.

          Incorporate Rice and Peas: Add the cooked jasmine rice along with the peas to the vegetable mixture. Use a spatula to gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring the rice is heated through and evenly distributed amongst the vegetables.

            Season the Dish: Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture, stirring well to combine. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prepared an egg earlier, fold it into the rice mixture at this point to combine.

              Finish with Green Onions: Add the finely chopped green onions and give the fried rice one final mix. Let everything cook together for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

                Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and, if desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for garnish. Serve the Zesty Zucchini Fried Rice hot, and enjoy the burst of flavors!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings