This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash dish is a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With fresh zucchini and yellow squash, it gets zesty garlic and a sprinkle of cheese for extra yum.
Honestly, it’s hard to believe how simple and delicious this is. I love serving it alongside my favorite grilled meats! It’s a great way to eat your greens without feeling guilty. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is a fantastic vegetable here, bringing moisture and a mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you could swap it with cucumber for a fresh twist, or even eggplant for a different texture.
Yellow Squash: Yellow squash adds a vibrant color and buttery taste. If you can’t find yellow squash, try using bell peppers or even sliced carrots, though the taste will differ.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works fine—just use about 1/8 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great salty flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a nice richness. You can substitute it with avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer, but avoid oils with strong flavors.
How Do I Get the Vegetables to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking zucchini and squash just right is essential for a good dish. You want them tender yet still a bit crisp. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use medium heat. This helps cook the vegetables evenly without burning the garlic.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too full, the veggies will steam instead of sauté.
- Keep stirring! This ensures even cooking and prevents any sticking.
- Watch the time! About 5-7 minutes should be enough for tenderness without mushiness.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfect, delicious zucchini and squash every time! Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. So, you can have this tasty side dish ready in just about 20 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and Slice the Vegetables:
Start by washing the zucchini and yellow squash under cool running water. Then, slice them into half-moons about 1/4-inch thick. Try to cut them evenly so they cook at the same rate!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers a little bit. Be careful not to let it smoke!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it gets fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, as that can make it taste bitter!
4. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Add your sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Stir everything together to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the veggies are cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently toss everything to combine and let the heat from the vegetables melt the cheese. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the garlic Parmesan zucchini and squash to a serving bowl. If you’d like, you can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm and enjoy this simple and tasty side dish!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! If you don’t have zucchini or yellow squash, feel free to substitute them with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can use other cheeses like Pecorino, Romano, or even a dairy-free option like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add more herbs and spices for extra flavor if desired!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed, to maintain moisture.
