This easy dish features tender zucchini and squash tossed in a lovely garlic butter sauce. It’s healthy yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for any meal!
You know what makes it great? It cooks quickly, so you can have dinner ready in no time. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star here—it’s mild and soaks up flavors well. If you can’t find zucchini, summer squash works great too!
Yellow Squash: It adds color and a slightly sweet flavor. You can swap it for more zucchini or even use bell peppers for a different taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter. Coconut oil is also tasty!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder could be a quick substitute if you’re in a pinch—start with 1/2 teaspoon.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. If you don’t have it, basil or thyme can work well too!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini and Squash Don’t Get Soggy?
A common challenge is getting those veggies perfectly cooked without becoming mushy. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to cut the zucchini and squash into uniform chunks, as this helps them cook evenly.
- Cook them over medium heat, not too high. Too much heat can cause them to release moisture too quickly, leading to sogginess.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet; you want them to sauté, not steam. If they look cramped, cook them in batches!
- Stir occasionally to let them brown without losing their crispness.
Easy Low Carb Garlic Butter Zucchini and Squash
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 medium yellow squash, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping the veggies and about 10 minutes cooking them in the skillet. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Veggies:
Start by washing the zucchinis and yellow squash. Cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks so they cook evenly and get that perfect tender texture.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Let it melt but be careful not to let it brown too much.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
4. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Once the garlic is ready, toss in the zucchini and yellow squash chunks. Stir them well to coat with that delicious garlic butter.
5. Let It Cook:
Cook everything over medium heat, stirring occasionally. In about 8-10 minutes, the vegetables will become tender and lightly browned. If you prefer them softer, cook for an extra couple of minutes.
6. Seasoning:
Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to taste. Mix it up well so every piece is seasoned just right.
7. Finishing Touches:
Remove from heat and, if you like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a bit of color and extra flavor!
8. Serve It Up:
Enjoy your warm garlic butter zucchini and squash as a tasty low-carb side dish. It’s healthy, simple, and bursting with flavor!
This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini and squash, all wrapped up in a delicious garlic butter glaze. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal!
FAQ for Easy Low Carb Garlic Butter Zucchini and Squash
Can I Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter?
Absolutely! Olive oil is a great alternative for a lighter, dairy-free option. Just use the same amount—3 tablespoons should work perfectly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can substitute fresh garlic with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Just add it along with the zucchini and squash to let the flavor infuse as it cooks.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the veggies ahead and store them in the fridge for up to a day. However, it’s best to cook them fresh to keep that wonderful texture. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated in a skillet.
What Should I Serve This With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping on salads. You can also serve it alongside cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal!
