Herb-Infused Zucchini & Summer Squash Medley
This vibrant Herb-Infused Zucchini & Summer Squash Medley is a delightful and quick side dish that captures the essence of summertime cooking. Bursting with fresh flavors, this medley celebrates seasonal produce with tender zucchini and golden summer squash sautéed to perfection. The combination of garlic, scallions, and aromatic herbs harmonizes beautifully to elevate the dish, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfectly served alongside grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish, it's a versatile addition to any meal. Embrace the bounty of summer with this delicious recipe that is quick to prepare and packed with nutrition!
2-3 servings
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
garlic
1 clove (minced)
scallion
1/4 cup (sliced thin)
zucchini
1 small (sliced thin)
summer squash
1 small (sliced thin)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
2
Add the minced garlic and sliced scallions to the skillet, cooking and stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant and tender, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown.
3
Once the garlic and scallions are ready, add the sliced zucchini and summer squash to the skillet. Stir to combine and ensure the vegetables are coated with the garlic and butter.
4
Sprinkle in the dried basil, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Stir again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the vegetables cook for 8-10 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the zucchini and squash are tender but still have a slight crunch.
6
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Infused Zucchini & Summer Squash Medley?
It is a vibrant and quick side dish featuring sautéed zucchini, summer squash, garlic, and aromatic herbs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 2 to 3 servings.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the butter and spices used are certified gluten-free, this vegetable dish is naturally gluten-free.
What are the primary vegetables used in this medley?
The main vegetables are one small zucchini and one small summer squash.
How long do I need to cook the vegetables?
Once the vegetables are in the skillet and covered, they should cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.
Can I substitute the butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute if you prefer.
What herbs are used for flavoring this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for dried basil to provide an aromatic herb infusion.
Can I add more garlic to the recipe?
Absolutely, while the recipe calls for one clove, you can adjust the amount of minced garlic to your personal preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
As written with butter, it is vegetarian. To make it vegan, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
How should I slice the zucchini and squash?
For even cooking, it is recommended to slice both the zucchini and the summer squash thin.
What is the best way to prepare the scallions?
The scallions should be sliced thin and you will need about 1/4 cup for this recipe.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
Cook the garlic and scallions over medium heat for only 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let them brown.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, fresh basil can be used; generally, you would use three times the amount of fresh basil as you would dried basil.
What type of skillet is recommended?
A large skillet is recommended to ensure the vegetables have enough room to cook evenly.
Why do I need to cover the skillet during cooking?
Covering the skillet helps steam the vegetables, ensuring they become tender while still retaining a slight crunch.
Should this dish be served warm or cold?
Yes, the recipe suggests serving this medley warm as a delightful side dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can cook it ahead and gently reheat it, though the texture of the squash may soften.
What are some good pairings for this medley?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or can even be served over cooked pasta.
How do I store leftover zucchini and squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is it possible to freeze the cooked vegetables?
Freezing is not recommended as zucchini and squash have high water content and may become mushy upon thawing.
Can I use only zucchini if I do not have summer squash?
Yes, you can substitute the summer squash with a second small zucchini if needed.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a nutrition-packed dish featuring fresh seasonal vegetables and minimal added fat.
How do I check if the vegetables are done?
The vegetables are done when they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite or crunch.
Can I add Parmesan cheese to the dish?
Yes, sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving adds a nice salty finish.
How can I add a bit of spice to this medley?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the basil and black pepper for a bit of heat.
Can I use other herbs like oregano instead of basil?
Yes, dried oregano, thyme, or an Italian seasoning blend would also work well in place of dried basil.
How much salt is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of salt, but you should adjust it to your own taste.
Is this a good recipe for children?
Yes, the mild flavors of the sautéed squash and butter are usually very appealing to kids.
What is the texture of the finished squash?
When cooked correctly, the squash should be tender but not mushy, maintaining its structural integrity.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cook in batches to ensure the vegetables sauté properly.