This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash dish is a tasty and easy side! With fresh zucchini and squash coated in garlic and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s simply delightful.
You can serve it alongside anything or enjoy it all on its own. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up; I love that it makes veggies so yummy! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini provides a mild, refreshing taste and a tender texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash can be used as a perfect substitute, or even a mixture of both for added color.
Yellow Squash: Like zucchini, yellow squash is versatile. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try using summer squash or even eggplant for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the dish. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil works well too, or you can use melted butter for a buttery flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty and nutty flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Italian Seasoning: This is optional but adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, simply use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from Garlic?
Garlic is crucial for great flavor in this dish, and getting it right is key! Here’s how:
- Always mince the garlic fresh right before using it; fresh garlic has a stronger punch.
- Sauté it quickly in olive oil, just until fragrant, to prevent burning. If it burns, it gets a bitter taste.
- Consider adding the garlic after the squash has softened a bit if you prefer a milder garlic flavor.
Follow these tips, and your Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash will be packed with incredible flavor! Enjoy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into half-moons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend around 20-25 minutes creating this delicious and healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your zucchinis and yellow squashes thoroughly. Slice them into half-moon shapes about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking. It’s great to have them ready to go!
2. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. This ensures that the garlic will sauté perfectly!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Make sure to stir it gently to avoid letting it brown too much; we want that lovely garlic flavor!
4. Add the Squash:
Now it’s time to add your sliced zucchinis and yellow squashes to the skillet. Stir everything so that the garlic and olive oil coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Season and Cook:
Sprinkle in some salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the veggies to be tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture!
6. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Once your squash is cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and coats the vegetables.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat and transfer your beautiful dish to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of color and freshness.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash warm as a delightful side dish. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini and Squash?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini and squash, but be aware they may release extra moisture while cooking. To avoid a soggy dish, thaw them in the fridge overnight and drain any excess water before adding them to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will still give you that cheesy taste!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and sauté them in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add the cheese to melt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can add a little olive oil to help maintain the flavor and texture!
