This tasty garlic Parmesan zucchini and squash medley is a breeze to make. Just sauté fresh veggies with garlic and sprinkle with cheese for a delicious side dish!
Honestly, who knew veggies could taste this good? I love it as a pair with chicken or pasta, or even just by itself when I need a little crunch! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star here. They are crisp and have a mild flavor. If they aren’t available, try using cucumbers, but know that the texture will differ.
Yellow Squash: Just like zucchini, yellow squash adds color and sweetness. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even some bell peppers for added flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute at about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. But I find fresh garlic really makes the dish pop!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a cheesy depth. If you want to switch it up, consider using Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing is key in this recipe to achieve the right texture. Follow these simple steps for perfect results:
- Start with a hot skillet on medium heat so everything cooks evenly.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat up slightly before adding the garlic. Don’t let the garlic burn; that can create a bitter taste!
- As you add the zucchini and squash, stir occasionally. This keeps them from sticking and helps them brown nicely.
Cook them just until tender and a bit crisp; this usually takes 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on the heat; if things seem to cook too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Finishing Touch:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious vegetable medley takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 7 minutes to cook. In just 17 minutes, you can have a healthy and flavorful side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables:
Start by washing your zucchinis and yellow squash thoroughly. Then, slice them into evenly-sized half-moons to ensure they cook evenly. A sharp knife works best for this job!
2. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and place it over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute—this helps the garlic cook without burning. We want it fragrant and golden, not brown!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add your minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute until your kitchen smells amazing. Watch it closely, as garlic can burn quickly.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss the sliced zucchini and yellow squash into the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to coat the veggies in garlic oil.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Let the zucchini and squash cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them tender but still crisp—no mushy veggies here!
6. Add the Parmesan:
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the warm vegetables. Gently toss them to coat in cheesy goodness!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the medley warm as a delightful side dish, and enjoy every bite!
Dig in and enjoy your simple, flavorful garlic Parmesan zucchini and squash medley!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Medley?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, particularly for harder vegetables like carrots or broccoli, as they’ll take longer to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can also work well if you prefer a different cheese taste.
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 a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best fresh, you can prep the sliced vegetables and minced garlic ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and sauté them just before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
