This nutritious summer squash takes center stage in our fresh and flavorful Sauteed Zucchini recipe.
With only a few ingredients and 5 minutes of cook time, you can have tender golden-crisp zucchini as a delicious meal or an easy side dish.
![Rounds of sauteed zucchini in a cast iron pan eith a white dish of lemon wedges, a pinstriped kitchen towel, green garnish, and a white dish of grated parmesan cheese](https://www.fourscoreliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/sauteed-sliced-zucchini-hero-shot-logo.jpg)
If you enjoy flavorful side dishes made with fresh and simple ingredients try our Keto Cole Slaw or Pineapple salad.
Why you'll love this recipe
Hydrating and low in calories. A healthy, delicious, and easy way to fuel up any time of day.
This easy recipe is naturally gluten free, keto friendly and paleo approved.
Simple to prepare and ready in minutes, this versatile summer dish can be topped with a tasty garnish or your favorite accompaniment. Double or triple to feed a hungry crowd
A sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a squeeze of fresh lemon brighten the taste palate of this simple side dish.
Have more zucchini than you know what to do with? Make our amazing keto zucchini lasagna next.
Recipe Ingredients
Fresh Sliced Zucchini - The main ingredient and star of this delicious side dish.
Avocado Oil - Light and mild with a high smoke point, avocado oil is a favorite for sauteeing. You can also use extra virgin olive oil.
Garlic Powder - To add complex flavor.
Salt - Any type of salt can be used. We like kosher salt for this recipe.
Black Pepper - For seasoning.
Grated Parmesan Cheese - Adds umami flavor and nuttiness.
Fresh Lemon Juice - An optional garnish that brightens this dish.
Fresh Parsley - An optional ingredient. Used for garnishing.
If you have any questions about the ingredients in our recipe please leave a comment below and we will get back to you.
Step by step instructions
Slice the zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds.
In a large skillet set over medium-high, heat the avocado oil.
Add the sliced zucchini to the pan. Season it with garlic powder and pepper, and gently toss to coat.
Cook for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender, tossing the pan occasionally to cook both sides evenly.
Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with salt, garnish with parsley and grated Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges.
These steps match the photos above, showing you how to make our easy recipe. For the complete list of ingredients and instructions, please see the printable recipe card below.
Expert tips
A mandoline slicer can be used to slice the fresh zucchini into rounds with uniform thickness to ensure all slices cook evenly.
HOW TO PREVENT SAUTEED ZUCCHINI FROM GETTING SOGGY
No one likes soggy zucchini:
- Cook fast on medium-high heat with oil
- Do not add to pan until the oil is hot
- Do not cover pan
- Avoid adding salt until the zucchini are cooked and removed from heat
- Do not overcook the zucchini
- Enjoy your delicious zucchini soon after cooking (instead of allowing them to sit, as zucchini will release water).
"Sweating" the sliced zucchini will remove water prior to cooking. If you choose to perform this as an additional step, place your fresh zucchini slices into a strainer or colander (place a bowl or tray underneath to catch any moisture that is released) and sprinkle with salt. Wait 20-30 minutes and then place slices onto an absorbent towel and blot to dry.
Variation and serving suggestions
Serve on its own or paired with your favorite meat, seafood, or legumes.
Add a fried egg and enjoy this dish for breakfast.
Season to taste with your favorite fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
Add spices like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
Tossing with tangy pesto sauce is also great.
Combine a drizzle of tomato sauce and a scoop of ricotta cheese to make an Italian inspired Sauteed Zucchini.
Top with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomato, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a mix of textures and flavors.
This simple recipe is the perfect side dish for our Easy Marry Me Chicken, and for dessert try our Italian Hangover Cake or Keto Lemon Cake.
Storage instructions
Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container lined with paper towels to collect any released moisture.
Freeze sauteed zucchini by arranging the slices into a single layer on a sheet pan to freeze and then transfer to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the freezer bag.
Please be aware that this dish is best enjoyed when fresh, as freezing will change the texture of the zucchini.
Prep in advance. Uncooked fresh sliced zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container that is lined with an absorbent towel - as zucchini will begin to release moisture once it has been sliced or spiralized.
We have not tried storing uncooked sliced zucchini beyond one day, but other chefs have shared it can be successfully stored for up to 3 days. We recommend slicing and using it that same day when possible.
It is not recommended to freeze fresh zucchini slices.
Other Zucchini recipes
Zucchini Noodles - Easy to make and ready in minutes, fresh zucchini noodles are a healthy alternative to traditional pasta and are loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Keto Chocolate Zucchini Muffins - A tender and decadent chocolate muffin recipe made with zucchini and almond flour. These sweet keto muffins are the perfect gluten-free, dairy-free treat that you can enjoy any time of day.
Keto Zucchini Bread - You can make tender keto zucchini bread in a few simple steps. This low carb zucchini bread is tender and just sweet enough for breakfast, dessert, or a nutritious snack.
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📖 Recipe
Sautéed Zucchini Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini into ¼-inch rounds.
- In a large skillet set over medium-high, heat the avocado oil.
- Add the zucchini to the pan. Season it with garlic powder, and pepper, and gently toss to coat.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until zucchini is crisp-tender, tossing the pan occasionally to cook both sides evenly.
- Transfer the zucchini to a serving plate, garnish with parsley and grated Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges.
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