Sautéed zucchini is a quick, simple, and delicious side dish that highlights the fresh, mild flavor of zucchini. This method of cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable while maintaining a crisp-tender texture. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and versatile, making it a perfect complement to a variety of main courses.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchinis and cut off the ends. Slice the zucchinis into rounds or half-moons, about 1/4-inch thick. If the zucchinis are large, you might want to cut them into half-moons to ensure even cooking.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown or burn.
- Cook the Zucchini:
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This will help them develop a slight golden-brown color.
- Stir the zucchini and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly crisp. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.
- Season:
- Sprinkle the zucchini with dried oregano or thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the sautéed zucchini with fresh chopped parsley or basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the sautéed zucchini hot as a side dish or as a topping for pasta, grain bowls, or salads.
This sautéed zucchini recipe is highly adaptable. You can experiment with different herbs and spices or add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a more robust dish. It’s an easy and healthy way to enjoy the fresh flavors of zucchini!
