This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley is a colorful dish that’s super easy to make! Fresh zucchini and squash are tossed with garlic and sprinkled with cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two veggies give a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even other squash like butternut or pattypan. They’ll still work beautifully!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you could use garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon will do. However, fresh garlic gives a much more vibrant taste!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, use pecorino or any other hard cheese you like.
Olive Oil: This enhances the taste and aids cooking. For a different flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil, but olive oil pairs perfectly with these veggies.
How Do You Get Each Bite Just Right?
Cooking the zucchini and squash until tender yet crisp is key. Overcooking will make them mushy! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat; the oil should shimmer before you add the garlic.
- Sauté garlic for just 1 minute. Keep stirring to avoid burning—burnt garlic can ruin the taste!
- Add the zucchini and squash together so they cook evenly; they take similar times to soften.
- Keep stirring occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender, yet have a slight bite to them.
- Don’t forget to sprinkle the cheese at the end—you want it melted but not too runny!
Enjoy creating this flavorful medley!
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at a total of about 20 minutes from prep to table! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a vibrant side dish for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it to be hot enough that it shimmers—this helps the garlic infuse flavor into the oil.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Be careful here—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can be bitter!
3. Cook the Veggies:
Add your sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season everything with salt, black pepper, and the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until the veggies become tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes. They should retain a little bite for the best texture!
4. Add Cheese:
Once the veggies are cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the warm veggies. It adds a delightful creaminess!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer your delicious medley to a serving dish. Top it with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Enjoy this quick and delicious vegetarian side dish with your favorite main course! It’s packed with flavor and nutrition—a perfect addition to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Medley?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even cherry tomatoes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for any veggies that take longer to soften!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use pecorino or any other hard cheese like gruyère for a different taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the veggies.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time! Chop the veggies and mix the seasoning, but wait to sauté until just before serving to ensure the zucchini and squash stay crisp and fresh.
