Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game with a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious? Sautéed Courgettes with Lemon is a Mediterranean delight that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your table. In just 15 minutes, you can transform simple courgettes into a gourmet side dish that will impress your family and friends. With the bright zing of lemon and the rich aroma of fresh parsley, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their meals. Dive into this quick and easy recipe that promises to make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium courgettes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the courgettes thoroughly under cool running water and pat dry with clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, trim the ends of the courgettes and slice them diagonally into uniform 1/4-inch thick oval pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully arrange the courgette slices in a single layer in the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper browning.
- Sauté the courgettes for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, turning them gently with tongs to achieve a golden-brown color and slightly caramelized edges.
- Season the courgettes with salt and freshly ground black pepper during the cooking process, adjusting to taste.
- Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the courgettes, allowing the citrus to enhance the vegetable's natural flavors.
- Transfer the sautéed courgettes to a serving platter and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for added color and aromatic freshness.
- Serve immediately while warm as a delightful side dish or light vegetable accompaniment.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Courgettes: Select firm, shiny courgettes for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that are soft or blemished.
- Uniform Slices: Slice the courgettes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. A diagonal cut not only looks appealing but also increases the surface area for browning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the courgettes in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, preventing that beautiful caramelization.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or try adding garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the sautéed courgettes right after cooking. They are best enjoyed warm, drizzled with lemon juice and garnished with fresh parsley.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for a fresh salad.
- Make it a Meal: Add sautéed courgettes to pasta or grain bowls for a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
