Sometimes, we crave something comforting, satisfying, and easy to make. This is where the Sauteed Zucchini recipe steps in to save the day! Not only is it incredibly healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free, but it's also a breeze to make. Plus, this recipe includes a secret ingredient: herbs de provence!
Ah, Herbs de Provence, where have you been all my life? My wife introduced me to this delightful spice mix through her Baked Dijon Pork Tenderloin Recipe. I was immediately hooked on its flavors. Almost 16 years later, it's a must-have in our kitchen. This aromatic blend typically features savory marjoram, rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and sometimes lavender.
In this recipe, I'll walk you through the best way to cook zucchini in just 15 minutes! So, let's get started and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
This Sauteed Zucchini Recipe Is:
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- Low Carb
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- Keto
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- Gluten Free
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- Paleo
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- Vegetarian
Table of Contents
5 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Looking for reasons to fall in love with this Sauteed Zucchini recipe? Here are some:
- Simple ingredients with tons of flavor!
- Quick and easy to prepare side dish!
- Comforting yet light recipe!
- Pairs nicely with almost every protein choice!
- Needs only 5 basic ingredients!
Is Sauteed Zucchini Low Carb?
Yes, sautéed zucchini is generally considered low-carb, making it a popular choice for low-carb and keto diets. Plus, this recipe contains 9g of net carbs per serving, making it ideal for those on a restrictive diet seeking a delicious side dish option.
To know more about "Is Zucchini Low Carb?" check out this detailed article to make informed choices in your low carb journey.
Sauteed Zucchini Ingredient List
To make this healthy zucchini recipe, you will need the following basic ingredients:
- 2 zucchini, washed and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons Herbs de Provence, divided
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Note: when choosing your zucchini for this recipe, choose small to medium zucchini. They have less water content and more flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some keto-friendly substitutions you can use in place of the original ingredients:
- Zucchini: Swap with yellow zucchini or yellow squash for a similar texture and flavor.
- Butter: Substitute with clarified butter or ghee for a rich, creamy taste.
- Olive oil: Try avocado or coconut oil as a healthier alternative with a mild flavor.
- Herbs de Provence: Italian seasoning (without added salt) works just as well.
- Fresh thyme: No fresh thyme? No problem! Use dried thyme instead, with about ½ teaspoon being the perfect amount for this recipe.
Additional Ingredients
Do you want to add some classic flavors to this recipe? Here are some keto-friendly ingredients that pair perfectly with the main flavors:
- Cheese: Zucchini and shredded or grated Parmesan cheese make a delightful duo. If you want Mexican flavors, add some Mexican cheese blend atop for a more cheesy yet delicious touch.
- Garlic: Enhance the flavor with minced fresh garlic. Adding about ½ of a clove will do the trick.
- Zing: Brighten your dish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist.
- Pine Nuts: Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them on top. Their nutty flavor adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
Note: These ingredients are optional and not included in the original recipe.
Cooking Tools Required
You'll need the following tools to make this sauteed zucchini recipe:
- Heavy-bottomed sauté pan
- Tongs
- Bowl
- Foil (for covering the bowl)
- Knife (for slicing the zucchini)
- Cutting board
How to Make Sauteed Zucchini: Complete Cooking Guide
Cooking Methods
- Sauteing
Preparation Steps
1. Gather all the tools and ingredients for this recipe.
2. Wash the zucchini and make zucchini slices.
3. Divide butter, olive oil, and Herbs de Provence.
Cooking Instructions
- Warm a heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 tablespoons butter and 1 teaspoon olive oil.
- Add a single layer of zucchini to the pan when the butter has melted. Add in 1 teaspoon of the Herbs de Provence and 2 sprigs thyme. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Uncover and flip the zucchini using tongs. It should be nicely browned. Once all the zucchini is flipped, cook another 5 minutes uncovered. When it is heated through, move to a bowl and cover with foil
- Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Step 1: Slice the zucchini a little more thick than you might for a salad. It is going to need the thickness to prevent it from falling apart.
Step 2: I layer my zucchini in the pan so it evenly browns. Sauteed zucchini loves butter and herbs.
Step 3: The zucchini is turning a nice golden brown. It doesn’t take long and really imparts a ton of flavor.
💡 My Pro Tip
Browning the zucchini slices is crucial for this recipe. If you toss all the zucchini into the pan at once, it might cook, but it won't be as tasty. Instead, taking a bit of extra time to brown the zucchini in a single layer ensures it is a tender and delicious veggie side dish. Crowding the pan leads to steaming rather than browning, which means less flavor and a strange texture.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Use a large, heavy-bottomed pan to minimize the number of batches needed.
- Opt for pre-mixed Herbs de Provence to save time on seasoning.
- Slice the zucchini in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
- Prep any additional toppings or garnishes while the zucchini cooks for added efficiency.
What to Serve With Sauteed Zucchini?
Sauteed zucchini is a healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of other recipes. Here are some delicious food pairings to consider:
- Crispy Golden Rotisserie Chicken: The tender sauteed zucchini perfectly complements the savory flavors of the crispy golden rotisserie chicken, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Grilled Chipotle Chicken: The smoky chipotle flavors of the grilled chicken are wonderfully balanced by the freshness of the sauteed zucchini, resulting in a mouthwatering combination.
- Smothered Pork Chops: The rich, hearty flavors of the smothered pork chops are enhanced by the refreshing taste of this perfect vegetable side dish. It creates a deliciously satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
- Grilled Steak Florentine: The bold, juicy flavors of the grilled steak are complemented by the subtle sweetness of this green vegetable dish with zucchini, creating a complete meal.
- Pork Kabobs: I love pork kabobs with my favorite vegetables as a side, and sauteed zucchini with fresh herbs is definitely my favorite combination!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage Tips
Here's the scoop on storing zucchini: they simply don't store well. If you choose to store the leftovers, place them in an airtight container after they have cooled to room temperature. It will last a day or two but will become significantly soft.
Freezing Tips
Freezing is absolutely not recommended for this recipe. The texture will be mushy and waterlogged when thawed.
Reheating Tips
This is why I don't like keeping leftovers for most zucchini recipes. To reheat, the best method is in a pan over medium-high heat. The zucchini will lose a lot of moisture and will probably fall apart in the pan. Although it will taste fine, the texture is a little mushy.
Recipe Conclusion
This sautéed zucchini recipe is a speedy, easy, and downright tasty way to enjoy this versatile veggie. With just zucchini, butter, and seasoning, you'll have a mouthwatering side dish ready in under 15 minutes. Due to such hassle-free reasons, it has become one of my favorite zucchini recipes!
I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that we've uncovered a scrumptious low carb meal together. Now, it's your turn to dive into the kitchen and make this zucchini side dish. Don't let those zucchinis linger in the fridge any longer - treat yourself to a simple yet sensational vegetarian side dish.
More Side Dish Recipes:
FAQs
Heat a pan with butter or oil, add sliced zucchini, season with salt and pepper, cook until golden brown.
Thyme, basil, oregano, and parsley go well with zucchini recipes.
Enhance the flavor of zucchini by adding garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, clove garlic, Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar. Trust me, any fresh herbs will enhance the flavor of zucchini.
To prevent soggy zucchini, ensure the pan is hot before adding zucchini, don't overcrowd the pan, cook on medium heat, and avoid covering the zucchini while cooking.
Sautéed zucchini may taste bitter due to overcooking or using zucchini with mature seeds. Cook for a shorter time and use younger zucchini.
Sauteed Zucchini with Thyme 🥒
Ingredients
Sauteed Zucchini Ingredient List
- 2 zucchini washed and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- 2 teaspoons olive oil divided
- 2 teaspoons Herbs de Provence divided
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients for this recipe.
- Wash the zucchini and make zucchini slices.
- Divide butter, olive oil, and Herbs de Provence.
Cooking Instructions
- Warm a heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 tablespoons butter and 1 teaspoon olive oil.
- Add a single layer of zucchini to the pan when the butter has melted. Add in 1 teaspoon of the Herbs de Provence and 2 sprigs thyme. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Uncover and flip the zucchini using tongs. It should be nicely browned. Once all the zucchini is flipped, cook another 5 minutes uncovered. When it is heated through, move to a bowl and cover with foil
- Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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Eddie Lucero says
Bang. Just the recipe I needed. So fast and easy. Thanks for sharing bro.
Scott Groth says
Hey Eddie:
Thanks for writing. Happy to see you enjoyed it.
Take care,
Scott