Easy Sauteed Zucchini with Garlic Butter
Perfectly sauteed zucchini with crispy golden edges and rich garlic butter flavor. Ready in just 10 minutes with only 6 simple ingredients. This quick and easy side dish pairs beautifully with any protein.
Ingredients
- 1 lb zucchini 2-3 medium, sliced slightly less than 1/2 inch thick
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin works great
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter added at the end for best flavor
- 3 cloves garlic freshly minced preferred
- 1/4 tsp sea salt adjust to taste
- 1/8 tsp black pepper freshly ground is best
Instructions
- Heat your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and wait about 30 seconds until it shimmers.
- Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer in the pan. Some overlap is fine, but don't stack them. Let them sit undisturbed for 2 full minutes.
- Stir the zucchini gently, then leave them alone for another 2-3 minutes until golden-brown spots appear.
- Turn the heat down to medium-low. Push all the zucchini to the outer edges of the pan, creating an empty space in the center.
- Drop the butter in the center and let it melt. Add the minced garlic directly into the melted butter. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic turns just barely golden (not brown).
- Stir everything together, mixing the garlic butter through all the zucchini slices. Add salt and pepper, toss once more, and serve immediately.
Notes
Slice Thickness: Keep slices slightly less than 1/2 inch thick for best results. Too thin = mushy; too thick = won't brown properly.
Pan Size: Use a 12-inch skillet. Smaller pans require cooking in batches.
Don't Salt Early: Salt at the end only, or the zucchini will release moisture and become watery.
Substitutions: Yellow summer squash works exactly the same. Avocado oil can replace olive oil. Use 3/4 tsp garlic powder if you don't have fresh garlic.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for 4-5 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
Variations: Add 1/2 tsp Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese, or finish with fresh lemon juice and herbs like basil or parsley.