Description
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and irresistibly flavorful dish, this sautéed zucchini with mushrooms and Parmesan is the perfect choice. With tender zucchini, savory mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish makes an ideal side or a light vegetarian main course. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 large zucchini, sliced into half-moons or quarters (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 300g (1/3 lb) button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 20g butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for mushrooms)
- 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt to taste
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- A bunch of parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Slice into even half-moons or quarters, keeping the thickness at about 1/4 inch for even cooking.
- Slice the mushrooms thinly.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Zucchini
- In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of vegetable oil along with the butter.
- Once the butter melts, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the zucchini slices and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and browned on the edges.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the hot paprika and regular paprika over the vegetables. Stir to coat evenly.
- Add the soy sauce and mix well to ensure the zucchini and onions absorb the flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked mushrooms to the skillet and mix them with the zucchini and onion.
- Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste the dish and adjust the salt if needed, keeping in mind that soy sauce adds some saltiness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Serve warm as a side or light main dish.
Notes
- Optional Topping: Add toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the level of paprika or garlic to suit your taste.
- Cheese Alternative: For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Fusion