Sautéed Zucchini Chunks: The Versatile and Fragrant Side Dish

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.

Don’t miss these other delicious side dishes:

  • Difficulty: Very Easy
  • Cost: Economical
  • Preparation time: 5 Minutes
  • Portions: 4 People
  • Cooking methods: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
186.38 Kcal
calories per serving
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  • 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.

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delizieallacannella2

Delicious and quick recipes to prepare: Cooking recipes from the Cinnamon Delights blog, illustrated step by step with photos, videos, and plenty of tips.

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