Looking for a simple yet flavorful appetizer that’s both healthy and satisfying? This zucchini with mushrooms and peppers dish is a fantastic choice. Packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress. It’s perfect as a starter, side dish, or even a light main course. Let’s get started with this delicious pan-fried appetizer!
Ingredients
- 500g zucchini, sliced: The base of the dish, offering a tender, slightly sweet flavor.
- Vegetable oil for frying: To sauté the vegetables.
- 350g mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, umami flavor that complements the zucchini.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: For a pop of color and sweetness.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
- 20g butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: For a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried tomatoes, crushed: Adds a concentrated burst of tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides a savory, umami kick to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the vegetables.
- 30g Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to finish the dish.
- Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the finished dish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by slicing the zucchini and mushrooms, and dicing the bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set all the ingredients aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and turn slightly golden. Remove the zucchini from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the sliced mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
3. Add the Garlic and Seasonings:
- Add the minced garlic to the pan with the mushrooms and peppers, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the dried basil and crushed dried tomatoes, mixing well to combine the flavors.
- Return the sautéed zucchini to the pan and mix with the other vegetables.
4. Finish the Dish:
- Add the butter to the pan and let it melt, coating the vegetables.
- Drizzle the soy sauce over the mixture, stirring to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the soy sauce is already salty.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly into the vegetables.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Once the vegetables are tender and well-coated with the seasoning, remove the pan from heat.
- Transfer the zucchini, mushrooms, and peppers to a serving dish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped dill for a final touch of freshness and color.
Conclusion
This zucchini with mushrooms and peppers dish is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender zucchini, earthy mushrooms, and sweet bell peppers, all enhanced with garlic, herbs, and a hint of Parmesan, makes for a truly satisfying dish. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side, or even as a light main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out, and enjoy a flavorful, healthy dish that’s ready in no time!