Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes Recipe

This light and flavorful skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes recipe is a perfect side dish during the summer months. The blend of fresh vegetables sautéed in garlic and parmesan creates a delightful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish. Tossed in aromatic herbs and parmesan, this dish bursts with the vibrant flavors of summer.

Photos of Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are pretty straightforward and can be found in regular grocery stores. However, one item that might be a little trickier to locate is the grape tomatoes. They're smaller than regular tomatoes and are known for their sweet, juicy flavor. They're often found in the fresh produce section, but if you can't find them, cherry tomatoes are a good substitute.

Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes Ingredients

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds a rich depth of flavor to the vegetables.

Butter: Enhances the flavor and helps the vegetables brown in the skillet.

Zucchini: A summer squash that's low in calories and high in antioxidants.

Yellow squash: Similar to zucchini in texture and flavor, but has a vibrant yellow skin.

Grape tomatoes: Small and sweet, they add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.

Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that gives the dish a Mediterranean flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a robust garlic flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture when melted.

One reader, Esra Botello says:

This skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the veggies are cooked to perfection. It's a delightful and healthy dish that's become a regular in my meal rotation. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious and easy veggie side dish!

Esra Botello

Key Techniques for Mastering Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Sauteing the zucchini and squash: This involves cooking the zucchini and squash in a skillet with olive oil and butter until they are tender and slightly browned.

Seasoning with Italian seasoning and garlic powder: This step involves evenly sprinkling the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to add flavor to the dish.

Melting the parmesan cheese: Sprinkling half of the parmesan cheese into the skillet and tossing it with the vegetables until it melts and coats them, then sprinkling the remaining parmesan over the top before serving.

How To Make Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes

Garlic-parmesan zucchini is a fresh side dish that is made even more vibrant by the squash and tomatoes. This colorful blend is the perfect summer combo.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 8 minutes

Total: 18 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1tbspbutter
12ozzucchini,diced into ½ inch pieces
12ozyellow squash,diced into ½ inch pieces
1½cupsgrape tomatoes
¾tspItalian Seasoning
¾tspgarlic powder
salt and freshly ground black pepper
½cupparmesan cheese,finely shredded

Instructions

Heat olive oil and butter in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add in zucchini and squash and saute 2 minutes.
Add in tomatoes then evenly sprinkle in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Continue to saute for 3 to 5 minutes longer, tossing occasionally, until squash is tender and tomatoes are beginning to burst.
Sprinkle in half the parmesan and toss then sprinkle remaining parmesan over top. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 154.29kcal
Fat: 9.27g
Saturated Fat: 4.37g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.72g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.60g
Carbohydrates: 12.56g
Fiber: 2.59g
Sugar: 3.22g
Protein: 7.33g
Cholesterol: 16.22mg
Sodium: 488.89mg
Calcium: 221.52mg
Potassium: 567.67mg
Iron: 1.28mg
Vitamin A: 91.76µg
Vitamin C: 26.94mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

To ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture, cut the zucchini and yellow squash into uniform pieces. This will not only make your dish look more appealing, but it will also ensure that every bite is as delicious as the last. Additionally, when sautéing the vegetables, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which may result in a mushy texture. Giving each piece of vegetable enough space to cook will help achieve a nice, light sear.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Prep ahead: Chop and store vegetables in advance to save time during meal preparation.

One-pan wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single skillet or pot for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain ingredients and freeze them for future use, such as homemade tomato sauce or cooked grains.

Efficient tools: Invest in time-saving kitchen gadgets like a mandoline slicer or a food processor to speed up food prep.

Plan meals: Create a weekly meal plan to streamline grocery shopping and ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand.

Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point to olive oil and a mild, neutral flavor, making it a suitable substitute for sautéing and cooking.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is clarified butter with a nutty flavor and high smoke point, making it a great substitute for butter in this recipe.
zucchini - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good substitute for zucchini in this recipe.
yellow squash - Substitute with pattypan squash: Pattypan squash has a similar texture and flavor to yellow squash, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are similar in size and flavor to grape tomatoes, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbs de Provence: Herbs de Provence is a fragrant herb blend that includes similar herbs to Italian seasoning, making it a suitable substitute.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, providing a more intense garlic flavor to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan cheese, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.

Elevate Your Presentation of Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Elevate the plating: Arrange the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes in an artful and visually appealing manner, ensuring each ingredient is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Present the skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes in elegant, minimalist serving dishes to exude sophistication and refinement.
Emphasize texture: Consider adding a delicate sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Balance flavors: Ensure the dish is seasoned to perfection, with a harmonious balance of savory parmesan, zesty garlic, and the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Showcase the natural beauty of the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes by arranging them to display a spectrum of colors, creating an enticing visual feast for the eyes.
Offer a sensory experience: Infuse the air with the delightful aroma of the dish as it is presented, enhancing the anticipation and enjoyment of the dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Olive oil: A flavorful oil used for sautéing and adding richness to dishes.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Non-stick skillet: A pan with a non-stick coating to prevent food from sticking.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme commonly used in Italian cuisine.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor to the dish.

Storing and Freezing Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

To store leftovers, allow the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the vegetables and prevent them from drying out.
For best results, consume the leftovers within a few days, as the vegetables may become softer and less appealing over time.
If you want to freeze the dish, it's best to do so before adding the parmesan cheese. Allow the cooked vegetables to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the vegetables in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add the parmesan cheese just before serving.
Keep in mind that the texture of the zucchini and squash may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer and more watery. The flavor, however, should remain delicious.

Reheating Leftover Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

To reheat leftover skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the dish while preventing the vegetables from becoming soggy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method allows you to quickly reheat the dish while maintaining its texture and flavor.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated to your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the dish, as this can cause the vegetables to become mushy.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftovers, consider incorporating them into a new dish. Chop up the reheated zucchini, squash, and tomatoes and use them as a topping for a pizza or flatbread. You can also mix them into a frittata or quiche for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Lastly, if you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing them for later use. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the leftovers in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using one of the methods mentioned above.

Interesting Trivia About Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Zucchini, squash, and tomatoes are all fruits, not vegetables. They are classified as fruits because they develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds.

Budget-Friendly: Is Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes Cost-Effective?

This skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option. The combination of zucchini, yellow squash, and grape tomatoes offers a nutritious and flavorful dish. The addition of parmesan cheese enhances the taste without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe is a solid 9/10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it an economical and satisfying choice.

Is This Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes Recipe Healthy?

The skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes recipe is a relatively healthy dish, packed with nutrient-rich vegetables. Zucchini and squash are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while tomatoes offer a good source of antioxidants like lycopene. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, and the parmesan cheese adds a boost of protein and calcium.

However, the recipe does include some elements that could be adjusted to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of butter or replace it with additional olive oil to minimize saturated fat content
Use a lighter hand when adding the parmesan cheese to cut down on overall fat and sodium levels
Consider adding other nutrient-dense vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals in the dish

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, you could:

Serve the vegetable mixture over a bed of quinoa or whole-grain pasta to incorporate complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Top the dish with a lean protein source like grilled chicken or tofu to create a well-rounded, balanced meal
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a boost of flavor without relying on excess salt or cheese

Editor's Take on This Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes Recipe

This skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of Italian seasoning and garlic powder adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while the burst of grape tomatoes brings a touch of sweetness to the dish. The addition of parmesan cheese provides a rich and savory finish. This recipe is a perfect way to showcase the natural flavors of the vegetables and is a great side dish for any meal.

Enhance Your Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and herb butter

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and bacon crumbles

Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic breadsticks with parmesan and herbs

Delicious Alternatives to Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken: This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy crispy chicken with a flavorful parmesan coating. It's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Asparagus: This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy asparagus. The roasted garlic and parmesan add a flavorful twist to this classic vegetable dish.

Grilled Lemon-Parmesan Shrimp: This recipe is a light and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp. The grilled lemon and parmesan add a delicious twist to this seafood dish.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy baguette slices with a flavorful mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This refreshing and vibrant appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with a molten center. The warm, gooey chocolate paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. The smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake combined with the sweet and tangy flavor of the strawberries is a match made in dessert heaven.

Why trust this Skillet Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its fresh zucchini, yellow squash, and juicy grape tomatoes. The combination of olive oil and butter ensures a rich and flavorful base, while the aromatic blend of Italian seasoning and garlic powder adds depth to the dish. The finishing touch of savory Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors, promising a satisfying and wholesome meal. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to deliver a delicious and nourishing vegetarian dish.

Have a favorite recipe for zucchini, squash or tomatoes? Share your thoughts on this skillet garlic-parmesan zucchini squash and tomatoes recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of squash such as pattypan squash or zephyr squash. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I substitute the grape tomatoes with other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can use cherry tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes as a substitute for grape tomatoes. The key is to use tomatoes that are firm and flavorful.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook them just before serving to ensure the vegetables are at their peak flavor and texture.

Can I add other herbs or seasonings to the dish?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste. Fresh basil, thyme, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful twist to the flavors.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using dairy-free butter and opting for a plant-based parmesan cheese alternative. The dish will still be full of flavor and delicious.