Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut Sauce

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

A colorful keto-friendly stir-fry featuring spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a rich, savory peanut sauce with crunchy vegetables. This asian fusion-inspired keto (vegetarian, low carb) ready in about 22 minutes blends medium, spiralized zucchini, small, thinly sliced red bell pepper, medium, julienned carrot 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 290 calories and feeds 3, 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: 15 min Cook: 7 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 290 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp natural peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp water, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tbsp fresh lime juice until smooth and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the spiralized noodles from 3 medium zucchinis, 1 small thinly sliced red bell pepper, and 1 medium julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  3. Step 3: Pour the peanut sauce over the vegetables and zucchini noodles and toss gently for 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat, garnish with 2 sliced green onions, and serve immediately.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (15 min prep + 7 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Creamy Peanut Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, low carb, dairy 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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