Imagine a side dish that's not just a mere accompaniment, but a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean. This Sautéed Zucchini with Almonds and Olives isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. With its perfect blend of crisp zucchini, toasted almonds, and briny olives, this dish promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel
- Using a sharp knife, slice zucchinis diagonally into uniform 1/4-inch thick medallions to ensure even cooking
- Prepare mise en place by mincing the garlic and slicing the olives into thin rings
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippled
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning
- Carefully add sliced zucchini to the skillet in a single layer, allowing each piece to touch the pan surface
- Cook zucchini for 3-4 minutes without stirring, allowing them to develop a golden-brown caramelization
- Gently flip zucchini pieces and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes
- Sprinkle sliced almonds into the skillet and toast them lightly with the zucchini for 1 minute
- Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 30 seconds to warm them through
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a serving platter, ensuring an even distribution of almonds and olives
- Serve immediately while warm, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm zucchinis with vibrant green color for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding zucchini to achieve that perfect golden-brown caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd the pan—cook zucchini in a single layer to prevent steaming and promote even browning.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for superior heat distribution and crispier results.
- Toast almonds carefully to enhance their nutty flavor without burning.
- Season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the zucchini at its crispiest and almonds at their most crunchy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
