Easy Sautéed Zucchini
This easy sautéed zucchini recipe is a go-to side dish for fuss-free weeknight dinners. Ready in less than 10 minutes, it’s the perfect side to serve with chicken, pork and fish.
Zucchini is one of our favorite low-carb vegetables and makes a delicious gluten-free side dish that also happens to be low in calories. When it’s zucchini season, I try to use this versatile vegetable in as many ways as possible. From fritters and fries to creamy pastas, it’s really the vegetable that does it all. This sautéed zucchini recipe is super simple and can be made in minutes.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Zucchini. Yellow squash/summer squash can also be used with this recipe.
- Extra-virgin Olive Oil. Vegetable oil like avocado oil is a good substitute. Butter can also be used.
- Fresh garlic cloves. Feel free to add finely chopped onions too.
- Salt and black pepper. Other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and red pepper flakes/chilli flakes are all delicious with zucchini and can be added to add more flavor.
- Lemon juice. I like to finish the zucchini with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. Adding some grated parmesan cheese is also a great idea and the parmesan goes so well with the savory zucchini. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives (optional).
How to sauté zucchini
- Slice: Wash and dry the zucchini then slice into 1cm/⅓-inch slices.
- Sauté: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini to the hot pan and fry for 5-7 minutes, tossing regularly to allow even cooking until fork tender and golden brown. Add the garlic and continue cooking for another minute then season to taste.
- Serve: Serve the sautéed zucchini with fresh lemon juice.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, this zucchini can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I prefer reheating the zucchini in the air fryer or microwave oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
We love serving zucchini with everything from chicken, steak and pork to fish and lamb. It’s a super versatile side dish and a great side dish to make while the protein is cooking. You can also use sautéed zucchini in frittatas, omelettes and warm salads.
Zucchini Recipes
Vegetable Side Dish Recipes
- Air Fryer Asparagus
- Maple Glazed Carrots
- Easy Air Fryer Broccoli
- Easy Garlic Butter Sautéed Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500g) zucchini
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves crushed
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh lemon juice to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry the zucchini then slice into 1cm/⅓-inch slices.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the zucchini and saute for 7-10 minutes, tossing regularly to ensure even cooking.
- Add the crushed garlic and cook for another minute then season with salt, pepper and lemon.
- Serve with your choice of main dishes.