This easy side dish features fresh zucchini and squash mixed with tasty garlic and parmesan cheese. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two vegetables are the stars of the dish. They should be fresh and firm. If you can’t find yellow squash, feel free to use all zucchini or mix in other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds incredible flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use about 1/4 teaspoon instead. It’s always best to start with fresh if you can!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty kick. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Olive Oil or Butter: I mostly use olive oil for a healthier option, but butter gives it a rich taste. You can also use a plant-based butter substitute if preferred.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini and Squash Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to making sure your zucchini and squash are tender is to avoid overcooking them. You want them to be soft but still have a little crunch. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Cook on medium heat to gently soften the vegetables without burning the garlic.
- Stir occasionally and keep an eye on them; around 5-7 minutes should do the trick!
- Test by poking with a fork; if it easily goes through but still has some resistance, you’re good to go!
By following these tips, your garlic Parmesan zucchini and squash will turn out perfectly each time! Enjoy serving them as a fresh side dish! 🌱
Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Side Dish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried basil (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes of cooking time—so you’re looking at around 20 minutes total! It’s a quick and tasty way to bring fresh vegetables to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Pan:
Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot but not smoking!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the oil or butter is ready, add in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it smells wonderfully fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown too much—burnt garlic is bitter!
3. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Next, toss the sliced zucchini and yellow squash into the skillet. Stir them occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a little crunch—just perfect!
4. Season the Vegetables:
Once the vegetables are cooked, season them with salt, black pepper, and your Italian herbs if you’re using them. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
5. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Now for the best part! Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cooked veggies. Toss gently to coat the zucchini and squash with the melted cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove your skillet from the heat and garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve warm as a delightful side dish that complements any meal!
Enjoy your Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on how quickly those veggies cook – you want them all to be tender yet crisp!
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with other types of cheese like feta, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without using cheese!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, as overcooking can make the veggies mushy.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the veggies by slicing them and even mincing the garlic ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, which will save you some time on busy nights!