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Quick Garlic Butter Sautéed Zucchini

quick garlic butter sautéed zucchini - featured image

A quick and easy 10-minute side dish featuring tender zucchini sautéed in garlic butter with a slight crisp and golden edges. Perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash zucchinis and pat dry. Slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Mince garlic finely. Chop parsley if using and set aside.
  2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, swirling the pan until butter melts and combines with oil. Heat until hot but not smoking.
  3. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir quickly to prevent burning. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add zucchini slices in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until bottoms are golden, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and let flavors meld for a few seconds.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, toss gently, and transfer immediately to a serving dish to maintain buttery shine and fresh flavor.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the zucchini. Use medium to medium-high heat for caramelization without burning garlic or butter. If butter browns too fast, lower heat and add a splash of water to keep zucchini moist. Mincing garlic finely prevents bitterness. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini, garlic butter, sautéed zucchini, quick side dish, easy vegetable recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy side, low carb, gluten free