If you’re looking for a quick and delightful way to showcase fresh summer produce, this sautéed zucchini recipe is it! It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect vegan and gluten-free side dish for any meal.

“We think that accomplishing things will complete us, when it is experiencing life that will.”

— Mark Nepo

This year has been a bit of a rollercoaster for our garden. While we’ve had our share of challenges, the zucchini has been a superstar! It’s so versatile and adds a wonderful touch to any dish. Recently, I’ve found my favorite way to prepare it is by sautéing, allowing all its summer sweetness to shine through.

Why You’ll Love Sautéed Zucchini

Sautéed zucchini is a breeze to make and complements a variety of meals. As a chef, I take great pleasure in utilizing seasonal ingredients and pairing them for the best results. This dish is full of fresh flavor that not only enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini but also takes advantage of summer’s bounty. Not to mention, zucchini is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, offering a range of health benefits!

Sautéed Zucchini Recipe Ingredients

• Zucchini: Feel free to use any tender summer squash, such as yellow squash, crookneck, or green varieties.
• Garlic cloves: These add a savory and aromatic touch to your dish.
• Red bell pepper: You can substitute it with orange or yellow bell peppers for some color.
• Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they are a delightful addition, especially when fresh from the garden!
• Ears of fresh corn: Alternatively, you can use more zucchini if desired.
• Olive oil: A must for the sauté; you can mix it with butter for extra richness.
• Red wine vinegar: This brings a nice acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh oregano: If you don’t have fresh, feel free to substitute with dried Mediterranean oregano.
• Fresh basil: This herb gives the dish an extra layer of summertime flavor!

How to Make Sautéed Zucchini

1. Sear the Zucchini

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and lay the zucchini slices in a single layer. Let them sear for about 1-2 minutes.

2. Sauté Remaining Veggies

Once the zucchini is slightly crispy, flip the slices, pushing them to the edges of the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and introduce more olive oil along with the garlic and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp. Stir in the corn, seasoning with salt, pepper, red wine vinegar, and oregano. If you like, drizzle with a bit more olive oil or add a tablespoon of butter for richness. Cook until the corn is warmed through, about another 2 minutes.

3. Serve

Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.

Sautéed Zucchini Variations

• Add Other Veggies: Get creative! Incorporate seasonal vegetables from your garden or the market, like eggplant, onions, or dark leafy greens such as spinach or kale. Note that cooking times may vary with additional ingredients.
• Add Fresh Toppings: Consider adding sliced avocado, various cheeses (like feta, parmesan, or goat cheese), lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for more flavor.
• Serve with Grains or Pasta: This dish pairs wonderfully atop wild rice, couscous, quinoa, pasta, or polenta for a more filling option.

Chef’s Tips

1. Choose Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: For the best taste, prepare this dish in the summer when zucchini is at its peak.
2. Aim for Tender-Crisp Vegetables: Make sure not to overcook the veggies—nobody likes mushy zucchini!
3. Watch the Garlic: When adding garlic and bell peppers, reduce the heat to avoid burning.
4. Finish with Butter: If you’re up for it, a tablespoon of butter added at the end will elevate the dish’s flavor.

Storing Sautéed Zucchini

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These make a delicious addition to breakfast scrambles, omelets, or even soups. Enjoy them cool or gently reheated!

Serving Suggestions

This sautéed zucchini is the perfect summer side dish. Some of our favorite pairings include grilled meats, fish, or simply served alongside a fresh salad.