Indian-style Zucchini Stir-Fry
A quick, healthy, and flavorful dish where tender zucchini meets the warm aroma of garlic, onions, and turmeric. This Indian-style stir-fry celebrates simple ingredients with bold spices — perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Servings 4
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis — halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
- 1 tbsp oil mustard oil, coconut oil, or any neutral oil
- 1/4 tsp mustard optional
- 1/4 cumin seeds optional
- 2-3 cloves garlic — finely chopped
- 1 small onion — thinly sliced
- 1 fresh or dry chili — slit or chopped optional
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro — chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini
- Wash and slice the zucchini into half-moons. Keep the skin on for texture and nutrients.
Temper the spices
- Heat oil in a pan on medium heat. Add mustard and cumin seeds and let them pop.
Add aromatics
- Add onion, and cook until soft.
- Add garlic and chili. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss the zucchini
- Add zucchini slices, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well so the spices coat evenly.
- Cook covered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
- If the skin is slightly tough, add 1/4 cup of water to help soften it.
- Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Toss gently.