Roasted zucchini with garlic is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that can easily accompany any main course. The tender zucchini is infused with the aroma of fresh garlic and herbs, which are heightened by roasting to bring out their natural sweetness. This recipe is a great way to make use of zucchinis when they are in season and at their best.
The main ingredients for this recipe are zucchini, garlic, and herbes de provence. Zucchini is a versatile summer squash that can be found in most supermarkets year round. Garlic, a staple in many kitchens, is used here fresh and minced for the most robust flavor. Herbes de provence, a blend of dried herbs typical of the Provence region in France, might not be as readily available. This mix often includes herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and marjoram. You can find it in the spice section of most supermarkets or specialty food stores, but if it's not available, an Italian seasoning blend can be a good substitute.
Ingredients for Roasted Zucchini with Garlic
Zucchini: This summer squash is the star of the dish, providing a soft texture and a mild yet slightly sweet flavor. Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a pungent and spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the zucchini. Olive oil: This helps to cook the zucchini and garlic while adding a touch of its own flavor. Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the zucchini and garlic. Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat to the dish. Herbes de provence: This blend of herbs adds a unique, aromatic flavor to the dish.
One reader, Kin Richie says:
This roasted zucchini with garlic recipe is a game-changer! The zucchini turns out perfectly tender with a delightful hint of garlic. The flavors are so well-balanced, and the dish is incredibly easy to make. It's a definite winner for a healthy and delicious side dish.
Techniques Required for Roasted Zucchini With Garlic Recipe
How to roast zucchini with garlic: A simple recipe for roasting zucchini with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, resulting in a flavorful and tender side dish.
How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to 450 degrees F and ensure that the rack is positioned on the top level.
How to toss zucchini with garlic and olive oil: In a bowl, combine the zucchini and minced garlic, then toss with extra virgin olive oil until evenly coated.
How to roast the zucchini: Spread the zucchini on a foil or silicone-lined sheet pan, skin side down, and sprinkle with salt. Roast in the preheated oven for 8 to 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to brown.
How to check for doneness: Start checking the zucchini at around 7 minutes and continue to monitor every few minutes until it reaches the desired level of browning.
How to season the roasted zucchini: Once the zucchini has browned, transfer it to a bowl and gently mix in the herbes de provence, salt, and pepper to taste.
How To Make Roasted Zucchini with Garlic
This roasted zucchini has everything we love about the rustic vegetable. Simply enough, the veggie is seasoned with garlic and herbs and baked until crisp.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbzucchini,each cut in half across the middle, then each half quartered lengthwise
- 1tspfresh minced garlic cloves
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- ½tspHerbes de Provence,or dried thyme
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Make sure there is a rack on the top rack spot in the oven.
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Place the zucchini and garlic in a bowl and toss with olive oil. Spread the zucchini out onto a foil or silicone-lined sheet pan, skin side down. Sprinkle with salt.
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Roast the zucchini at 450 degrees F for 8 to 15 minutes, or until it begins to brown. (Start checking at about 7 minutes and keep checking every few minutes.)
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Once the zucchini has started to brown at the edges, remove it from the oven and place the zucchini in a bowl. Gently mix in the herbs and salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: 51.39kcal
- Fat: 3.76g
- Saturated Fat: 0.57g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.48g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.47g
- Carbohydrates: 4.06g
- Fiber: 1.28g
- Sugar: 2.85g
- Protein: 1.46g
- Sodium: 274.29mg
- Calcium: 23.53mg
- Potassium: 304.57mg
- Iron: 0.64mg
- Vitamin A: 11.67µg
- Vitamin C: 20.58mg
Key Technique for Perfect Roasted Zucchini With Garlic
To ensure your zucchini roasts evenly, try to cut them into uniform pieces. This will not only help them cook at the same rate, but also give your dish a more professional appearance. Additionally, tossing the zucchini with olive oil and garlic before roasting will help to infuse the flavors more deeply into the vegetable. Lastly, remember to keep a close eye on the zucchini while it's in the oven, as it can go from perfectly roasted to burnt in a matter of minutes.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Zucchini
Prep ahead: Chop and store the zucchini and garlic in an airtight container in the fridge the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
High heat: Preheat the oven to 450°F while you prepare the zucchini to speed up the cooking process.
Even slices: Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced zucchini, ensuring they cook uniformly and reducing overall cooking time.
Quick seasoning: Instead of mixing the herbs separately, use a premixed seasoning blend to save time on measuring and mixing individual herbs.
Single layer: Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet for even cooking and browning, saving time on flipping or rearranging during cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Zucchini with Garlic Recipe
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and flavor to zucchini, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh minced garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor with a milder taste.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
herbes de provence - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute for herbes de provence, offering a blend of herbs that complements the flavors in the dish.
Presentation Tips for Roasted Garlic Zucchini
Elevate the zucchini: Arrange the roasted zucchini slices in a circular pattern on the plate, slightly overlapping each other to create a visually appealing presentation.
Drizzle with olive oil: Carefully drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil in a circular motion around the zucchini, ensuring an even distribution for a glossy finish.
Sprinkle with herbes de provence: Gently sprinkle a pinch of herbes de provence over the zucchini, focusing on the center of the dish to add a pop of color and aromatic flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Place a small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary on top of the zucchini as a delicate and fragrant garnish, adding a touch of elegance to the dish.
Season with freshly ground black pepper: Using a fine-mesh sieve, dust a light layer of freshly ground black pepper over the zucchini to enhance the flavors and provide a sophisticated finishing touch.
Serve on a modern plate: Present the roasted zucchini on a sleek, minimalist plate to create a striking contrast and draw attention to the vibrant colors of the dish.
Accompany with garlic aioli: Serve a dollop of creamy garlic aioli on the side of the zucchini for an indulgent and flavorful addition, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Roasted Zucchini
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting, baking, and heating food.
- Sheet pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Bowl: A round, deep dish used for mixing and holding ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Garlic Zucchini
Let the roasted zucchini cool completely before storing. This will help prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy and mushy.
Place the cooled roasted zucchini in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
Store the roasted zucchini in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's best to consume the zucchini within this timeframe for optimal taste and texture.
If you want to freeze the roasted zucchini, follow these steps:
- Arrange the cooled zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the zucchini is frozen solid. This initial freezing step helps prevent the zucchini pieces from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the zucchini to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the roasted zucchini for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen roasted zucchini, simply place it on a baking sheet and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may become slightly softer.
Note: Freezing roasted zucchini may cause it to lose some of its crisp texture upon reheating. It will still be flavorful, but it may be slightly softer compared to freshly roasted zucchini.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Zucchini With Garlic
To reheat leftover roasted zucchini in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle a little olive oil over the zucchini and sprinkle with some garlic powder or minced garlic for extra flavor. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the zucchini is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use the microwave. Place the leftover roasted zucchini in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the zucchini is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the zucchini can become mushy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the roasted zucchini. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the zucchini on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 3-5 minutes or until the zucchini is warmed through and slightly crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the leftover roasted zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated roasted zucchini, try sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese or feta cheese over the top before serving. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.
Interesting Fact About Roasted Zucchini With Garlic
The roasted zucchini with garlic recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Zucchini is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal. This recipe is a great way to add more vegetables to your diet and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and seasonings. Plus, it's a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. So, next time you're looking for a tasty and nutritious side dish, give this roasted zucchini recipe a try!
Is Making Roasted Zucchini With Garlic Cost-Effective?
This roasted zucchini with garlic recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Zucchini is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, and the additional ingredients are pantry staples. The dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5-$7, depending on the availability and pricing of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Roasted Zucchini With Garlic Healthy?
The roasted zucchini with garlic recipe is a healthy dish that offers several nutritional benefits. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and manganese. Garlic provides additional flavor and has been linked to various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish. The herbes de provence provide a flavorful touch without adding extra calories or sodium.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used to minimize the calorie content
- Add other colorful vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to increase the variety of nutrients
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
- Serve the roasted zucchini alongside lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish to create a well-balanced meal
- Opt for a low-sodium salt alternative or use lemon juice to brighten the flavors while reducing sodium intake
Editor's Thoughts on This Roasted Zucchini Recipe
This roasted zucchini with garlic recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the zucchini while adding a punch of savory garlic. The high roasting temperature helps to caramelize the edges of the zucchini, creating a delicious depth of flavor. The addition of herbes de provence adds a touch of earthy and floral notes, elevating the dish to a new level. Overall, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy zucchini and makes for a perfect side dish for any meal.
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Why trust this Roasted Zucchini with Garlic Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh zucchini and garlic for vibrant flavors. The extra virgin olive oil adds a rich and savory taste, while the herbes de provence brings a touch of aromatic complexity. The high-heat roasting method ensures the zucchini develops a delicious caramelized exterior, enhancing its natural sweetness. With careful attention to detail and quality ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful and satisfying dish.
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