Hearing the sizzle of sautéed zucchini chunks in the pan is a pleasant melody that often accompanies me during spring.
This is a versatile side dish that I pair with many dishes, both land and sea. And every time, I am enchanted by the perfect balance of taste and simplicity contained in this dish.
It all begins when I sink the knife into the tender flesh of the zucchini, smelling their fresh aroma wafting through the air. I cut them precisely into chunks and plunge them into the warm embrace of oil and garlic. And, when they begin to turn golden, I sprinkle them with spices that enhance their delicate flavor.
The sautéing gives the zucchini a particular texture, a slight crunchiness that yields to a soft and flavorful inside. This makes them perfect as a side dish for a grilled fish fillet. But also as a topping for fresh pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil.
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- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Energy 186.38 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 12.48 (g) of which sugars 0.02 (g)
- Proteins 10.38 (g)
- Fat 13.69 (g) of which saturated 2.06 (g)of which unsaturated 0.78 (g)
- Fibers 4.49 (g)
- Sodium 399.84 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 4 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Sautéed Zucchini Chunks
- 10 zucchini
- 1 clove garlic
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 leaves basil
- 1 sprig parsley
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- 2 pinches salt
- 1 pinch pepper
Preparation of Sautéed Zucchini Chunks
Wash the zucchini and dry them well. Trim the ends and cut them into four parts lengthwise, then in half horizontally, to obtain chunks.
Brown the garlic clove in a pan with the oil. Then, add the zucchini and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish the preparation by sprinkling the zucchini chunks with the chopped basil, parsley, and marjoram. Let them absorb the flavors for a few minutes.
Serve the sautéed zucchini both hot and warm.
Storage
The sautéed zucchini can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, closed in an airtight container.
Suggestions
You can add a pinch of chili pepper to this dish for a lively note. Or you can enrich it with a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Related Recipes
Traditional Scapece Zucchini Recipe
Eggplants and Potatoes with Herbs
Original Grilled Fennel Recipe
FAQ
What are the recommended pairings for sautéed zucchini chunks?
Sautéed zucchini chunks are a versatile side dish and pair well with various dishes. They can be served with grilled meats, like chicken or fish, or added to pasta or rice dishes.
What spices can I substitute for thyme?
You can use marjoram instead of thyme.
Can I prepare sautéed zucchini chunks in advance?
Of course. You can prepare the sautéed zucchini in advance and reheat them before serving.