This tasty dish features tender zucchini, juicy mushrooms, and sweet onions all sautéed together. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
I love how easy it is to whip up on busy nights. Serve it as a side or toss it in pasta for a yummy, veggie-packed meal. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are key for a tender texture. If they’re not available, summer squash or yellow squash can work as substitutes, adding a similar taste and great color.
Mushrooms: Button and cremini mushrooms shine in this dish, but you can swap these out for shiitake or portobello for a richer flavor. Just remember to slice them for even cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness, but if you prefer a lighter flavor, try using spring onions or shallots. They’ll enhance the taste without overpowering the veggies.
Garlic: This ingredient boosts the dish’s aroma and taste. If you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to reduce the amount or leave it out altogether.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love the richness of butter, but olive oil keeps it lighter. You could also use coconut oil if you want a different flavor profile.
How Can I Get the Perfect Sauté on My Vegetables?
Getting that lovely golden color and amazing flavor comes down to technique. Here are the steps to help you sauté perfectly:
- **Heat your pan:** Start with a medium-high heat. Make sure the oil or butter is hot before adding the onions.
- **Cook in order:** Sauté the onions first until soft. Then, add mushrooms as they need a bit more time, and finish with zucchini, which cooks quickly.
- **Don’t overcrowd:** If your pan is too full, the veggies will steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if needed for even browning.
- **Add garlic late:** Garlic burns quickly, so stir it in towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
- **Keep it moving:** Stir often! This prevents sticking and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Enjoy your sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and onions as a delicious side or a part of your favorite meal!
Sauteed Zucchini, Mushrooms, and Onions
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 8 oz (about 225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sauté takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy addition to any meal. In just about 25 minutes, you can have a vibrant and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil or Butter:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sauté, but be careful not to burn it!
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until they become soft and translucent—this releases their sweet flavor.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Now, it’s time to add the mushrooms. Sauté them for another 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’ve released their moisture and started to brown. They should be nicely caramelized, adding depth to your dish!
4. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. Garlic will give off a wonderful aroma, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
5. Mix in the Zucchini:
Now it’s zucchini’s turn! Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and season everything with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and any dried herbs you’re using. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
6. Sauté Until Tender:
Keep cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The zucchini should be tender yet still have a slight crisp—perfect for that bit of bite!
7. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the veggies for a zesty kick and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Serve Warm:
Toss the mixture gently to combine and serve warm. This sautéed dish is vibrant, savory, and makes a beautiful side for any main course or even a filling for wraps!
Enjoy your savory sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and onions! 💚
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach. Just keep in mind that different veggies may require varying cooking times, so add them accordingly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already plant-based! Just use olive oil instead of butter for cooking, and you’re all set for a delicious vegan dish.
What Can I Serve with Sauteed Zucchini, Mushrooms, and Onions?
This sauté pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. For a vegetarian option, try it atop quinoa, pasta, or rice, or use it in tacos or wraps for a healthy meal!
