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Sautéed Zucchini in Lemon Garlic Butter: A Flavorful and Easy Side Dish Recipe

Sautéed Zucchini In Lemon Garlic Butter
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simple and flavorful sautéed zucchini recipe is a perfect side dish that pairs well with almost any main course, such as chicken, seafood, beef, or pork. The zucchini is pan-fried to a golden crisp, then seasoned with garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino cheese. It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh, zesty flavors!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 lb (450g) zucchini (1 large zucchini)
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of red chili flakes
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1–2 tablespoons finely grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients:
    • Slice the zucchini into thick ½-inch (1.5 cm) rounds or half-circles.
    • Finely chop the garlic (avoid using a garlic press for better texture).
    • Zest the lemon using a Microplane or fine grater.
  2. Cook the zucchini:
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a large frying pan over medium heat.
    • Once hot, add the zucchini in a single layer (slight overlapping is okay, but avoid multiple layers).
    • Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. The zucchini should still be slightly crunchy.
  3. Add flavor:
    • Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic, chili flakes, and lemon zest. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
    • Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Finish and serve:
    • Transfer the zucchini to a serving plate.
    • Sprinkle with finely grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Browning tip: If the zucchini isn’t browning evenly, remove the browned pieces and continue cooking the rest.
  • Doubling the recipe: Use a high smoke-point oil (like avocado oil) and cook over high heat to prevent steaming.
  • Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan.

Find it online: https://recipes.swedishinarabic.net/sauteed-zucchini-in-lemon-garlic-butter-a-flavorful-and-easy-side-dish-recipe/