Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic, Lemon & Herbs
Want to know how to cook zucchini? This easy garlic zucchini recipe is ready in 20! A simple, delicious side that's bursting with summery flavor. Check it out! ... Quick & Easy Weeknight Meals
- Zucchini Bliss: A Simple Sautéed Delight
- Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic, Lemon & Herbs Recipe Card
- Why You'll Absolutely Love This Garlic Zucchini Recipe
- What you need?
- How to Cook Zucchini: It's Easier Than You Think!
- Ingredients & Equipment
- How To Cook Zucchini: The Only Guide You Need
- Recipe Notes for Your Zucchini Bliss!
- Frequently Asked Questions
Right, let's get this show on the road! fancy learning how to cook zucchini in a way that'll have everyone begging for seconds? this sautéed zucchini recipe is simple but tastes like a proper celebration.
I'm talking sunshine on a plate, people.
Zucchini Bliss: A Simple Sautéed Delight
Ever wondered what to do with all that summer zucchini ? this recipe's your answer. it's a celebration of fresh, summery flavours, originating from the mediterranean coast.
We're talking tender zucchini with garlic, lemon, and herbs. it is easy zucchini recipes kind of easy. prep takes around 10 minutes, and cooking? another 10.
This makes 4 servings of pure deliciousness.
Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic, Lemon & Herbs Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Why You'll Absolutely Love This Garlic Zucchini Recipe
One of the best parts? zucchini is packed with nutrients. think vitamin c and antioxidants. this simple zucchini recipe is fantastic alongside grilled chicken or chucked into pasta, perfect for a light dinner or summer bbq.
What makes this truly special is the zing of lemon and fresh herbs, adding so much flavour.
What you need?
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb / 450g), ends trimmed, sliced into 1/4-inch / 0.6cm rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Cook Zucchini: It's Easier Than You Think!
First things first, wash your zucchini and slice it into rounds. then, get your skillet hot with olive oil. chuck in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if you're feeling spicy.
Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. keep an eye on it though, burnt garlic tastes like socks! now, add your zucchini.
Fry it up until it is tender-crisp and lightly browned. finally, stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and mint. season like you mean it with salt and pepper.
Serve immediately.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this sautéed zucchini with garlic, lemon & herbs sing! it's all about fresh ingredients and simple tools.
Don't worry, nothing too fancy here. honestly, if i can do it, you can too!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 medium (about 1 lb/450g ). Sliced into 1/4-inch/0.6cm rounds.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons .
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. The smaller the better!
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, but adds a nice kick ).
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons , fresh. You know the bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon , chopped.
- Fresh Mint: 1 tablespoon , chopped.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key!
Quality zucchini: look for firm, smooth zucchini. avoid any with bruises or soft spots. you want them to feel heavy for their size.
That means they are fresh and hydrated. it is a good start about how to cook zucchini
Seasoning Notes
We're going for a classic Mediterranean vibe here.
- Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes: A match made in heaven. It is a foundation for the delicious Garlic Zucchini Recipe .
- Lemon & Herbs: Adds brightness and freshness. It feels like summertime.
- Flavor Enhancers: Don't be afraid to add a pinch of sugar if the lemon is too tart. A tiny bit goes a long way! Want to know how to cook zoodles zucchini noodles ? The seasoning will be key to remove the texture!
- Substitutions: No fresh mint? Try a little basil. Don't overthink it.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple!
- Large Skillet: Non-stick is your friend, but any large pan will do.
- Cutting Board & Chef's Knife: Obvious, but important! Take care of your fingers, alright?
- Measuring Spoons & Cups: For accuracy.
- Alternatives: Don't have a fancy chef's knife? Any sharp knife will work. No measuring spoons? Eyeball it! Seriously, sometimes I do. Shhh . One of the Simple Zucchini Recipes is not only easy, but also requires fewer items.
And that's it! Gather your ingredients and equipment, and let's get cooking! We are going to cook zucchini noodles ! Trust me, easy zucchini recipes are the way to go! A Sautéed Zucchini Recipe it's delicious and easy to prep! This Summer Zucchini Recipes will make you repeat this recipe!
How To Cook Zucchini: The Only Guide You Need
Honestly, how to cook zucchini properly can be tricky. You want tender-crisp, not soggy. It's all about technique. Let me show you Easy Zucchini Recipes , starting with my absolute fave.
Prep Like a Pro: Zucchini's Spa Day
First, essential mise en place. it sounds fancy, but it means getting everything ready. wash and slice two medium zucchinis into 1/4-inch rounds .
Mince two cloves of garlic. roughly chop a tablespoon each of fresh parsley and mint. measure out two tablespoons of lemon juice.
You know, get organized.
Time-saving tip? Do this while your skillet heats up. Speaking of, safety first! Remember that oil can spit.
From Hob to Heaven: Sautéed Zucchini, Step-by-Step
Here’s how to cook zoodles zucchini noodles , and slices:
- Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy!).
- Sauté until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds .
- Add the zucchini slices in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender-crisp. This usually takes 5- 7 minutes . You want a little colour on them.
- Remove from the heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and mint.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Pro Tips for Garlic Zucchini Recipe Perfection
Want to take your sautéed zucchini recipe to the next level? a common mistake is overcrowding the pan. cook in batches for even browning.
Also, mind the garlic. burnt garlic is gross. finally? don’t be shy with the lemon. that zing makes all the difference.
Oh my gosh! zucchini side dish recipes have never been this good.
Looking for make-ahead options? Sauté the zucchini, but don't add the lemon juice and herbs until just before serving. Reheat gently. Enjoy these Summer Zucchini Recipes
Recipe Notes for Your Zucchini Bliss!
Right, so you're ready to whip up some zucchini bliss ? brilliant! before you dive in, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs that'll make your sautéed zucchini recipe sing.
Honestly, these are the kinda tips that elevate a simple dish into something truly special.
Serving Up Sunshine
Thinking about presentation? don't just chuck it on a plate! plating and presentation are key! a simple swirl of balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance.
A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds texture and a fancy feel. try this with simple zucchini recipes .
For sides, this garlic zucchini recipe is amazing with grilled chicken or fish. it also loves being pals with a simple pasta dish.
Got some crusty bread? even better for mopping up those tasty garlicky juices.
Storing Your Zucchini Goodness
Got leftovers? no worries! regarding the refrigeration, just pop it in an airtight container. it'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Honestly, easy zucchini recipes can be easily stored and reheated.
Freezing? hmm, i wouldn't recommend it. cooked zucchini can get a bit mushy after freezing and thawing. however you can cook zucchini noodles and freeze them, if you are adamant to use zucchini noodle recipes .
Reheating is easy: a quick zap in the microwave or a toss in a pan with a little olive oil. Sorted!
Variations on a Theme
Fancy a bit of a twist? easy peasy! for a dairy-free version, skip the cheese and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Want a spicy kick ? a pinch of cayenne pepper does the trick. for seasonal swaps, courgette flowers also add a fantastic taste.
You know summer zucchini recipes are a gift!
For dietary adaptations, you could serve it over quinoa instead of pasta. This boosts the protein and makes it gluten-free. Honestly, it's so adaptable!
Nutrition Nitty-Gritty
Let's break it down: this dish is relatively low in calories and packed with vitamins. zucchini is a great source of vitamin c and potassium.
Plus, it's mostly water, so it's super hydrating. i will tell you how to cook zoodles zucchini noodles : eat them, so you absorb all the nutrients! healthy and delicious? winner winner, zucchini dinner!
So, there you have it! everything you need to pan fried zucchini . now go forth and get creative! don't be afraid to experiment.
Have fun! i swear, this zucchini side dish recipes will become a family favourite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to slice zucchini before cooking? Should I peel it?
For this recipe, slicing the zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds works best. It allows for even cooking and a nice tender-crisp texture. As for peeling, the skin is perfectly edible and adds a bit of texture and nutrients, so there's no need to peel it unless you really prefer a smoother texture – it's your kitchen, your rules!
How to cook zucchini without it getting soggy? Mine always turns to mush!
The key to avoiding soggy zucchini is to not overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the zucchini browns properly instead of steaming. Also, don't overcook it – aim for tender-crisp. Just like Goldilocks, you want it just right! We are aiming for 5-7 minutes.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? What goes well with sautéed zucchini?
Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile. Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes are all great additions. You could even throw in some mushrooms for an earthier flavor. Get creative – it's like a culinary playground! Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
I'm trying to eat healthier. Is sautéed zucchini a good option?
Definitely! Zucchini is low in calories and carbohydrates but packed with vitamins and minerals. Sautéing it with olive oil is a relatively healthy cooking method, especially when compared to frying. Plus, all those fresh herbs add extra flavor without extra calories. It's a win-win, like getting a free upgrade on a flight!
How long does cooked zucchini last in the fridge? Can I freeze it?
Cooked zucchini will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Freezing cooked zucchini is generally not recommended as it can become quite mushy upon thawing. However, if you plan to use it in soups or stews where texture isn't as critical, it might be okay – but don't expect it to be the star of the show!
What are some different ways how to cook zucchini besides sautéing?
Besides sautéing, there are tons of other delicious ways how to cook zucchini. You can grill it for a smoky char, roast it in the oven for a caramelized sweetness, spiralize it into noodles for a low-carb pasta alternative, or even shred it and bake it into zucchini bread! The possibilities are as endless as Netflix's catalogue.
