Brighten up your table with the vibrant flavors of Sautéed Zucchini with Lemon, a quick and easy side dish that’s bursting with freshness. Perfectly pan-seared zucchini rounds are cooked to tender perfection with golden edges, then elevated with aromatic garlic, tangy lemon juice, and zest for a zippy, citrusy finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this healthy, gluten-free, and vegetarian recipe is a versatile addition to any meal, pairing beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and an optional herbal touch to this light and flavorful dish. Ideal for weeknights or dinner parties alike, this recipe is a delightful way to make the most of fresh zucchini’s natural goodness!
Wash and pat dry the zucchini. Trim the ends and slice the zucchini into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Mince the garlic cloves and set aside. Zest the lemon to yield about 1 teaspoon of zest, and then juice the lemon to yield approximately 2 tablespoons of juice.
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the zucchini slices to the pan, spreading them out in an even layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow some golden browning.
Stir the zucchini gently and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still slightly firm.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the zucchini is evenly coated.
Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately as a side dish to complement your favorite main course.
Calories |
1235 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.9 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 27066 mg | 1177% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 211.1 g | 77% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 24.1 g | 86% | |
| Total Sugars | 190.7 g | ||
| Protein | 28.5 g | 57% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 444 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 9.4 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 6038 mg | 128% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.