Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 small zucchini (cut into thin, half moon slices)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
- 1 pound small button mushrooms (cleaned and patted dry)
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Fats and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
Seasonings and Broth
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped herbs (thyme and oregano recommended, or 1 teaspoon dried herbs)
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated parmesan
Instructions
- Heat oil and butter: Add olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon butter to a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Cook zucchini: Add zucchini slices to the hot skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until fork-tender. Remove zucchini and set aside. Wipe out any liquid in the skillet.
- Melt remaining butter: Return skillet to heat and add the remaining butter, melting it over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the onions and mushrooms.
- Sauté onions: Add diced onions to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until they are just softened, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Cook mushrooms: Add mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and nicely browned, which adds depth of flavor.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in minced garlic and fresh or dried herbs, cooking for about 20 seconds to release their aroma without burning.
- Combine zucchini and mushrooms: Return the cooked zucchini to the skillet, mix well with the mushrooms, and cook together for 1 minute to blend the flavors and warm the zucchini through.
- Add vegetable broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and cook for an additional 2 minutes to deglaze the pan and enhance the dish’s moisture and taste.
- Season to taste: Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and grated parmesan over the dish, and serve hot for a flavorful, satisfying side.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work well in a pinch.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute butter with extra olive oil and omit parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Ensure mushrooms are dry before cooking to achieve better browning.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or can be served as a vegetarian main with added protein like chickpeas.
- You can adjust herb quantities and types based on what you have on hand for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian