Description
Zucchini lovers rejoice with this simple sautéed zucchini recipe that brings Mediterranean flavors to your plate. Garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs create a quick side dish perfect for summer meals and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 5 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add minced garlic. Quickly sauté for approximately 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Carefully introduce sliced zucchini into the skillet, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with garlicky oil. Spread zucchini in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and maintain optimal browning.
- Allow zucchini to cook for 3-6 minutes, gently stirring occasionally. Monitor the texture, aiming for tender slices that remain structurally intact and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove skillet from heat and generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the warm zucchini to create a subtle melting effect, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- Transfer sautéed zucchini to a serving plate immediately, preserving the perfect balance of tenderness and slight caramelization. Serve hot as a delectable side dish that highlights the vegetable’s natural sweetness.
Notes
- Select zucchini that’s firm, smooth, and has a vibrant green color for the best texture and flavor.
- Slice zucchini uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the dish.
- Control heat carefully to prevent garlic from burning, which can create an unpleasant bitter taste.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve light golden-brown edges and prevent steaming instead of sautéing.
- Opt for a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking and promote beautiful caramelization.
- Create a low-carb version by serving the sautéed zucchini as a side dish or using it as a base for other recipes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg