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Easy Sautéed Zucchini Recipe Quick 3-Ingredient Side Dish Perfect for Busy Nights

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A quick and simple sautéed zucchini side dish made with just zucchini, garlic, and olive oil. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe is flavorful, tender, and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 12 ounces or 340 grams), sliced into half-moons or rounds
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt (optional)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash 2 medium zucchini thoroughly and pat dry. Slice into half-moons about 1/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking. Set aside.
  2. Peel and mince 2 cloves of garlic finely. Alternatively, lightly crush for milder flavor.
  3. Place a 10-inch skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat until oil shimmers but does not smoke (about 1-2 minutes).
  4. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Add zucchini slices to the skillet in a single layer as much as possible. Let cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a golden sear on one side.
  6. Stir the zucchini gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm. Total cooking time should be 6-8 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Stir gently and turn off heat. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs if using.
  8. Transfer sautéed zucchini to a serving dish and serve warm immediately.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming; cook in batches if needed. Use medium heat to prevent garlic from burning. Add salt at the end to avoid drawing out moisture and making zucchini mushy. Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor. Optionally add lemon juice or fresh herbs after cooking for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: sautéed zucchini, quick side dish, easy zucchini recipe, 3-ingredient recipe, garlic zucchini, healthy side, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/easy-saut-e-ed-zucchini-recipe-quick-3-ingredient-side-dish-perfect-for-busy-nights/