Description
Zucchini sizzles with garlic and herbs in this quick 15-minute side dish that brings Mediterranean charm straight to your dinner table. Fresh summer squash gets a flavor boost from simple seasonings, making weeknight cooking deliciously simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Produce:
- 2 zucchinis
Fats and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse 2 medium zucchinis thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut the zucchinis into uniform half-moon shapes about ¼ inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Place a large skillet on the stovetop and warm 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat for approximately 1 minute.
- Crush and mince 3 cloves of garlic, releasing their aromatic oils before adding to the heated pan.
- Quickly sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and develop a rich flavor.
- Gently slide the zucchini slices into the skillet, creating an even layer across the cooking surface.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper over the zucchini for balanced seasoning.
- Cook the zucchini for 5-7 minutes, turning the slices every 2 minutes to ensure they brown evenly and maintain a tender-crisp texture.
- Remove the skillet from heat when the zucchini edges turn golden and the center remains slightly firm.
- Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a serving plate, allowing excess oil to drain briefly.
Notes
- Fresh zucchini works best when the skin is firm and bright green, without soft spots or blemishes.
- Use a sharp knife to slice zucchini evenly for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
- For a lower-fat version, replace olive oil with vegetable broth or use a non-stick pan with just a light spray of oil.
- Add red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese at the end for extra flavor and personal flair.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Sautéed
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg