Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic and Lemon

 

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Juice of half a lemon
• Zest of one lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is sizzling.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Cook the Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the zucchini is golden brown and tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
5. Season and Add Lemon: Once the zucchini is cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the zucchini and sprinkle with lemon zest. Toss everything together gently.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course.

Tip: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for pasta or rice.