Sautéed Zucchini

Sautéed Zucchini just might be the quickest and easiest side dish recipe out there! In less than 15 minutes and with a few simple ingredients, like zucchini, butter, and garlic, you can have a healthy veggie on the table. Serve up this low-carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian dish on a busy weeknight.

Easy Sautéed Zucchini Squash

What initially started with this Sautéed Zucchini and Yellow Squash led the way to this even more simplified sautéed zucchini recipe.

You only need a few basic ingredients that you probably already have on hand: butter and/or oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. 

It also takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish to whip up this easy vegetarian side dish.

Enjoy it as is, or switch it up with other fun flavors like this Greek Seasoning, Italian Seasoning, or even Blackened Seasoning or Taco Seasoning.

Add this one to the weekly recipe rotation after you experience for yourself how easy it is to sauté zucchini! It will likely become one of your favorite ways to enjoy this healthy veggie.

(If you’re drowning in garden zucchini from the farmer’s market or grocery store, learn how to freeze zucchini, or try any of these zucchini recipes to enjoy with your favorite summer main courses!)

Ingredients

The simple ingredients you need to make this easy sautéed zucchini recipe include:

• Squash. Fresh, healthy zucchini is used in this recipe. Look for ripe, similarly sized zucchini. Avoid large ones as the texture is more fibrous. Yellow squash can be substituted or mixed in (if you’re trying to figure out the difference, check out Is zucchini a squash?).
• Garlic. Minced garlic cloves are the secret to giving this recipe a punch of flavor, so be sure to use fresh. You can swap out for garlic powder if absolutely necessary, but it’s not recommended.
• Butter. While butter is called for, oil will work as well. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, feel free to use a vegan butter substitute (such as vegan buttery sticks).

How to Sauté Zucchini

Below are the steps to make this sautéed zucchini squash recipe at home: 

Prep the Zucchini

The first step is to slice up the zucchini.

Make sure to wash away any dirt or debris on the outside.

Then, trim both ends of the zucchini. Cut it in half lengthwise. Finally, slice it into ¼ to ½-inch pieces.

Sauté on the Stove

Add the butter to a large skillet or cast-iron pan. Set the stovetop to medium or medium-high heat.

Once the butter is melted, spread it across the bottom of the pan. Add the zucchini slices in a single layer to the hot pan. Without stirring or disturbing the zucchini, let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

Flip the slices over and allow them to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, just until they’re almost tender.

In the last 30 seconds, stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.

Season with salt and black pepper and serve right away.

Meal Prep and Storage

• How to prep ahead of time: Chop the zucchini and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
• How to store: Keep leftover sautéed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• How to freeze: Allow the zucchini to cool, then transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container, and freeze up to 3 months
• How to reheat : You can easily use the microwave, but warming it back up in a skillet with a little more butter is the best method.

Do you need to peel zucchini before sautéing?

Peeling zucchini before sautéing is completely optional. Leaving the skin on increases the health benefits of zucchini, but it does affect the texture.

Is sautéed zucchini healthy?

Sautéed zucchini is incredibly healthy, especially when made with simple ingredients like garlic and seasonings. Zucchini is a great source of fiber, which improves digestion. It just might be the perfect side dish.

Can you freeze sauteed zucchini?

Yes, you can easily freeze sautéed zucchini. In fact, making a big batch and freezing some is a great way to have an even quicker, simple side dish ready any time of year.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Go fresh. Farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and even your garden are overflowing with zucchini in the summer. 
• Use a large skillet. You want enough space so the sautéed zucchini aren’t on top of each other.
• Let it sit. Cooking zucchini this way allows it to caramelize, resulting in a deep, rich flavor. 
• Leave the peel. This adds color, texture, and extra nutrition. But it’s your choice!
• Top it off. Add some grated Parmesan cheese, herbs like fresh basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even a spritz of lemon juice for some extra flavor.
• Serve it up. Enjoy this great healthy side dish with your favorite protein, like pork chops, pork tenderloin, or chicken.

Other Easy Side Dish Recipes

Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy recipe to get a healthy side on the table. These dishes fit the bill.

Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower, Instant Pot Glazed Carrots, and Chinese Green Beans are flavorful and good for you.

Or, opt for Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes.

More Zucchini Recipes

In the summer months, zucchini is everywhere. Try one of these healthy recipes next.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters, Air Fryer Zucchini Chips, Zucchini Lasagna Roll Ups, and Zucchini Pie are surprisingly delicious.

Whip up some Air Fryer Zucchini or Squash and Zucchini Casserole for a delicious side dish.

For a sweet tooth, try Zucchini Banana Bread, Chocolate Zucchini Bread, or Zucchini Brownies.