Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with just about any meal? This Parmesan Lemon Zucchini recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the bright zing of lemon and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. The balance of flavors creates a light yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and can be whipped up in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 zucchinis, thinly sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusted to your preference
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (or more, to taste)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash and slice the zucchinis into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
2. Cook the Garlic:
- In a spacious skillet, heat the unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s melted. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and sprinkle with dried thyme. Stir to coat the zucchini evenly with the garlic butter. Adjust the flavor with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still has a slight crunch.
4. Add Lemon Zest and Parmesan:
- Once the zucchini is tender, stir in the lemon zest and freshly grated Parmesan. Toss the zucchini gently to ensure it is well coated with the lemon and cheese.
5. Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the zucchini and stir to combine. Taste and adjust with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as desired.
6. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the zucchini to a serving dish. Garnish with additional Parmesan and a little more lemon zest if desired.
Conclusion:
This Parmesan Lemon Zucchini is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, healthy side dish. The combination of lemon and Parmesan adds a zesty brightness that complements the mild flavor of zucchini, while the garlic and thyme round out the dish with savory notes. Whether served alongside grilled meats, pasta, or fish, this zucchini dish is sure to be a hit!