Description
This Sautéed Zucchini, Mushrooms, and Onions is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course. By allowing the vegetables to sear in the pan before stirring, you get beautiful caramelized edges that enhance their natural sweetness. With a tender texture and a savory garlic butter finish, this healthy vegetable medley comes together in just one skillet in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter (or olive or coconut oil)
- 2 large zucchini, halved and sliced into half-moons
- 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Heat the Pan
Place a large 10-12 inch skillet over medium heat. Add the butter (or oil) and allow it to melt completely.
Sear the Veggies
Add the sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and onion to the hot pan. Spread them out into an even layer. Crucial Step: Let the vegetables cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes. This allows the bottom layer to brown and caramelize rather than steam.
Sauté Until Tender
After the initial sear, stir the vegetables. Continue to cook, stirring every couple of minutes, for another 6 to 8 minutes, or until the zucchini and mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
Season and Finish
Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for just 30 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
Serve
Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Don’t Salt Too Early: Wait to add the salt until the end (step 4). Salt draws moisture out of vegetables, so adding it too early can cause the zucchini to steam and become mushy instead of browning.
The “No Stir” Rule: Resisting the urge to stir for the first 3 minutes is the secret to flavor. That contact with the hot pan creates the delicious golden crust.
Pan Size: Use a large skillet. If the vegetables are piled on top of each other, they will release water and stew in their own juices. You want them to have enough room to roast against the hot metal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté / Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: sauteed zucchini and mushrooms, healthy vegetable side dish, easy zucchini recipe, mushroom onion skillet, low carb side dish, gluten free vegetable recipe, 15 minute side dish