Teriyaki Beef Zoodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic alternative to traditional stir-fries, offering a light yet satisfying meal. The teriyaki sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, while the zoodles (zucchini noodles) offer a healthy, low-calorie substitute for pasta. The beef is juicy and flavorful, making this dish a hearty, nutritious option for any night of the week. Plus, it’s ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious and quick.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl and toss to coat. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

2. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in batches (so it doesn’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Zoodles: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the zoodles and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until they’re slightly tender but still crisp.

4. Combine: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the zoodles and toss everything together. Allow the beef and zoodles to heat through for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is coated with the sauce.

5. Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra teriyaki sauce if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For more color and nutrition, include bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas in the stir-fry.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.

• Different protein: Swap the beef for chicken or shrimp for a different twist.

• Low-sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the salt content.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the zoodles release too much liquid, you can drain it off before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of zoodles?

Yes, if you prefer regular pasta, you can substitute it for the zucchini noodles. However, the dish will no longer be low-carb.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, pork, or even ground beef in place of flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make my zoodles without a spiralizer?

If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or a vegetable peeler to make thin strips of zucchini.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and zoodles ahead of time, but it’s best to cook everything fresh so the zoodles don’t become too soggy.

How do I keep the zoodles from becoming too watery?

Don’t overcook the zoodles. Sauté them for only 2-3 minutes, so they remain crisp and don’t release too much moisture.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce. Just be mindful of the sodium content and adjust accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use tamari instead of soy sauce and check the ingredients in your teriyaki sauce for gluten.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze zoodles, as they release too much water when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked beef and teriyaki sauce mixture for later use.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

You can add a splash of sesame oil or a tablespoon of peanut butter to give the sauce more depth and richness.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can include bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef Zoodles is the perfect weeknight meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. With tender beef, a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, and crisp zoodles, this dish is packed with everything you need for a delicious, low-carb dinner. Whether you’re looking to cut down on carbs or just want a quick and easy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!