Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A quick keto stir-fry combining tender strips of beef with zucchini ribbons tossed in a flavorful sesame ginger sauce. This asian-inspired keto (low carb, high protein) ready in about 20 minutes blends thinly sliced beef sirloin, sesame oil, soy sauce (or coconut aminos) into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Asian cuisine 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 8 oz thinly sliced beef sirloin with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Remove beef and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 medium zucchini sliced into thin ribbons and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender but still crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return beef to skillet and pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos). Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until sauce is absorbed and coats ingredients.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, high protein, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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