Transform your weeknight dinners with the bold and flavorful "Spicy Zucchini" recipe—an irresistible, healthy side dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Featuring tender, golden-brown zucchini slices infused with the smoky heat of paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and aromatic cumin, this dish delivers a satisfying balance of spice and zest. Each bite is elevated by a fresh drizzle of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley, creating a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish. Whether you're looking for a quick vegetarian recipe, a low-carb side, or a spiced-up way to enjoy zucchini, this skillet-cooked masterpiece is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, tossing into salads, or even enjoying on its own!
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat dry. Slice each zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, and cook for another 15 seconds to bloom the spices.
Add the zucchini slices to the skillet in an even layer. Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the zucchini.
Cook the zucchini for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the zucchini rest for 1-2 minutes.
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the zucchini and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy zucchini as a side dish or a light main course!
Calories |
569 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.1 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.0 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 8653 mg | 376% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 67.2 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.6 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.4 g | ||
| Protein | 9.9 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 201 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 5.5 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 2027 mg | 43% | |
*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.