Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Spicy Sesame Tofu

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

A quick stir-fry featuring tender zucchini noodles and crispy tofu tossed in a spicy sesame sauce for a low-carb vegetarian meal. This asian-inspired vegetarian (low carb) ready in about 30 minutes pairs extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed, sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free) for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a low-carb week and pairs well with cauliflower rice or roasted green vegetables. 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: 15 min Serves 2 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 8 oz pressed, cubed extra firm tofu and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just tender but not mushy.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sriracha sauce, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and return the tofu to the pan. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately for a spicy, low-carb vegetarian stir-fry.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Spicy Sesame Tofu take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Spicy Sesame Tofu?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep sesame oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Spicy Sesame Tofu?

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 Spicy Sesame Tofu 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Spicy Sesame Tofu vegetarian?

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

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