This tasty dish features fresh zucchini and yellow squash cooked in rich garlic butter. It’s a low-carb delight that’s quick and easy to make—perfect for any day of the week!
I love how bright and colorful it looks on my plate. Plus, the garlic butter makes everything taste so good! Enjoy it as a side or even on its own. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star of the dish. It’s low in carbs and has a mild flavor. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash works great as a substitute!
Yellow Squash: This adds a lovely color and texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even bell peppers for variety.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but start with less (1/8 tsp) as it’s more concentrated.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness. You could replace it with olive oil or a dairy-free butter if you want a healthier or vegan option.
Fresh Parsley: It adds freshness. If you like, replace it with basil or omit it entirely if fresh herbs aren’t available.
How Do You Ensure Your Zucchini and Squash Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking zucchini and yellow squash just right can be tricky because they can become mushy easily. Here are a few tips:
- Cut the squash into even chunks, so they cook at the same pace.
- Start cooking them at medium heat, and go low if needed, to avoid browning before cooking through.
- Stir occasionally but not too often, allowing some sides to caramelize for added flavor.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—8-10 minutes usually does the trick without losing their crunch!
Your goal is to have tender veggies that still have a bit of bite, so taste test towards the end of cooking! Enjoy the simple, flavorful results!
Easy Low Carb Garlic Butter Zucchini and Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 medium yellow squashes, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short time, you can have a healthy, low-carb side ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by washing the zucchinis and yellow squashes thoroughly. Then, slice them into bite-sized chunks. Keeping the pieces roughly the same size will help them cook evenly.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, set over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt until it starts to foam. This is when the butter’s flavor will come alive!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir it continuously for about 30 seconds. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it burn as garlic can turn bitter quickly!
4. Add the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, toss in the bite-sized zucchini and yellow squash chunks into the skillet. Make sure to stir them well to coat every piece with that delicious garlic butter.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
Cook the zucchinis and squash for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing them to get tender and a lovely golden color on the edges. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure they don’t burn.
6. Season to Taste:
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give them a good stir to distribute the seasoning evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley on top if you’re using it. This adds a nice freshness to the dish! Serve warm as a delightful low-carb side dish, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash are fantastic, you can add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use garlic powder as a substitute. Start with about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated. Add it to the vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by replacing the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavors will still be delicious!
