Simple Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic
This recipe offers the simplest, most classic way to enjoy fresh zucchini, quickly sautéed with fragrant garlic and olive oil. It's a perfect, easy-to-digest side dish that complements almost any main course.
For 2 servings
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off both ends, then slice each zucchini into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds or half-moons. Consistency in slicing ensures even cooking.
Peel and finely mince the garlic clove. Prepare any optional fresh herbs you plan to use, such as chopping parsley.
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding ingredients to achieve a good sear on the zucchini.
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Add the sliced zucchini to the pan in a single layer if possible, or in batches if your pan is not large enough. Season immediately with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sauté the zucchini for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender-crisp and lightly browned in spots. Avoid overcooking, as zucchini can become watery and mushy.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, stir in the fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Serve immediately as a warm and flavorful side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the pan: If you add too much zucchini at once, it will steam instead of sauté, leading to a watery and less flavorful result. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 2Consistent slicing is key: Uniformly cut zucchini pieces will cook at the same rate, ensuring every bite has the perfect tender-crisp texture.
- 3High heat is your friend: Sautéing zucchini quickly over medium-high heat helps it brown nicely and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- 4Avoid overcooking: Zucchini cooks relatively fast. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it's tender-crisp to retain its best texture and flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle heat.
Herb GardenHerb Garden
Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, dill, or oregano instead of parsley for different aromatic profiles.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Stir in a few cherry tomatoes (halved) and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese during the last minute of cooking for added color and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Zucchini is a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and immunity.
Hydrating and Low-Calorie
Composed of over 90% water, zucchini is excellent for hydration and is very low in calories, making it ideal for weight management.
Digestive Health
The fiber content in zucchini, combined with its high water content, aids in healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
Frequently asked questions
To avoid watery zucchini, ensure your pan is hot and not overcrowded. Cook in batches if needed, and season with salt once the zucchini is in the pan, as salt draws out moisture.
