This tasty medley mixes fresh zucchini and squash, all kissed with garlic and topped with parmesan cheese. It’s quick, colorful, and super healthy!
I love how easy this side dish is to whip up! Just sauté the veggies, sprinkle some cheese, and you’ve got a dish that makes dinner feel special every time! 🥒🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, consider using straight-neck squash or even sliced bell peppers for a twist!
Yellow Squash: Just like zucchini, yellow squash adds a lovely color and texture. If you prefer, you can swap it with any kind of summer squash available.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder works too—use about 1 teaspoon instead!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast is a great alternative that still provides a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Vegetables Stay Crisp?
The trick to keeping your zucchini and squash nice and crisp is to avoid overcooking them. Here’s how:
- Cook on medium heat—too high can burn the garlic and too low will steam the veggies.
- Stir often but not constantly. This allows for even cooking while keeping some bites crunchy.
- Only cook for about 8-10 minutes until they’re just tender. Remember, they will continue cooking a bit off the heat.
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect balance between tender and crisp!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
Flavor Boosters:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Finishing Touches:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and delightful side for any meal. Just a little sautéing and you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by pouring the olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s shimmering slightly.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell the delicious garlic aroma. Be careful not to let it burn—it can become bitter if overcooked!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Give them a good stir, making sure they’re well coated in the garlic and oil.
4. Season and Cook:
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and the optional Italian seasoning. You’ll want to stir occasionally while cooking for about 8-10 minutes. The veggies should be tender but still have a nice crunch!
5. Cheese it Up:
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the warm veggies. Gently toss everything together—this will let the cheese melt and coat the vegetables.
6. Get Ready to Serve:
Transfer your scrumptious medley to a serving dish. To add a pop of color, garnish with fresh chopped parsley right before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this tasty and healthy side dish! You could pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even pasta for a complete meal!
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Medley?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that gives a similar flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, to make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. You could also enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste!
