This tasty Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley is a breeze to make! Just slice fresh zucchini and yellow squash, toss them with garlic and Parmesan cheese, and roast until golden.
I love how this dish is not only easy but also healthy! It’s a perfect side for any meal. Plus, the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen is just the best! 🧄💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this dish! If you can’t find zucchini, try using cucumbers for a different texture, or even asparagus for a unique twist.
Yellow Squash: It adds a lovely color and flavor. You can swap it with other summer squashes like pattypan or even bell peppers if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder will work, but I recommend fresh for more intensity.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is wonderful, but if you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil provides healthy fats and flavor. You can use avocado oil or melted butter as a substitute if you prefer.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Roasted Zucchini and Squash?
Roasting zucchini and squash is all about achieving that perfect tender texture while keeping the flavors vibrant. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice your veggies evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate—keep them about 1/4-inch thick.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Give them space so they roast instead of steam.
- Keep an eye on the roasting time; you want them tender but not mushy. Check around 15 minutes.
- Let delicious garlic and Parmesan flavors mingle for a few minutes after roasting for a richer taste.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 medium yellow squash
Flavorings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to roast. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your vegetables roast nicely and get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash your zucchini and yellow squash thoroughly. Then, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure the slices are even so they cook at the same rate.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini and squash together with the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the pieces are evenly coated.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This helps them roast rather than steam.
5. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as they roast!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Check around 15 minutes to see if they are tender and the cheese is golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once roasted, remove the sheet from the oven. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Squash Medley
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or even carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the new veggies have different thicknesses.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can substitute fresh garlic with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove. Just mix it in with the olive oil and remaining ingredients to incorporate the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative, like nutritional yeast, which will provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
