Zucchini with Thyme Recipe

Embrace the delightful pairing of zucchini and thyme in this simple yet flavorful dish. With its earthiness and minty undertones, thyme perfectly complements the mild and slightly sweet taste of zucchini. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate the humble zucchini into a tantalizing side dish that will surely impress your guests.

Photos of Zucchini with Thyme Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe such as zucchini, thyme, olive oil, and butter are typically common household items. If not, they can easily be found in any supermarket. However, fresh parsley might be something you need to look out for. While dried parsley can be used as a substitute, fresh parsley offers a vibrant taste that significantly enhances the flavor of this dish.

Ingredients for Zucchini with Thyme

Extra virgin olive oil: This is used to sauté the vegetables. It adds a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.

Unsalted butter: It adds a creamy and rich taste to the zucchini.

Onion: Onion adds a depth of flavor and sweetness to the dish.

Fresh parsley: Parsley gives a fresh and vibrant taste to the dish.

Fresh zucchini: The star ingredient. Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber making it a healthy and satisfying ingredient.

Dried thyme: Thyme gives a subtle, dry aroma and a slightly minty flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.

Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and sharpness.

One reader, Jamima Bartels says:

This zucchini with thyme recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant. The zucchini turns out perfectly tender, and the thyme adds a lovely earthy note. It's a simple yet delicious dish that's become a regular in my meal rotation. Highly recommend trying it out!

Jamima Bartels

Cooking Techniques for Zucchini With Thyme Recipe

How to cook onions with parsley: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter on medium heat. Add the onion and parsley, sprinkle with salt, and cook until soft, but not browned.

How to add zucchini and thyme: Add the zucchini sticks and thyme to the onions. Sprinkle with a little more salt and some black pepper. Gently stir to coat the zucchini.

How to cover and cook zucchini: Cover and cook until tender, from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how tender the raw zucchini is to begin with, and how small you have sliced the pieces. Check and stir every few minutes. Be careful not to overcook.

How To Make Zucchini with Thyme

Zucchini in thyme is another recipe to add to your arsenal of zucchini dishes. It’s simple enough just with onion, butter, and parsley.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspextra virgin olive oil
1tbspunsalted butter
¼cuponion,finely chopped
¼cupfresh parsley,chopped
1lbfresh zucchini,cut into 3 by ½-inch sticks
1tspdried thyme,(or 1 tbsp) fresh thyme, chopped
salt
black pepper,freshly ground

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter on medium heat. Add the onion and parsley, sprinkle with salt, and cook until soft, but not browned.
Add the zucchini sticks and thyme to the onions. Sprinkle with a little more salt and some black pepper. Gently stir to coat the zucchini.
Cover and cook until tender, from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how tender the the raw zucchini is to begin with, and how small you have sliced the pieces.
Check and stir every few minutes. Be careful not to overcook.

Nutrition

Calories: 111.48kcal
Fat: 10.06g
Saturated Fat: 2.87g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.70g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.93g
Carbohydrates: 5.12g
Fiber: 1.62g
Sugar: 3.30g
Protein: 1.69g
Cholesterol: 7.63mg
Sodium: 321.17mg
Calcium: 33.28mg
Potassium: 339.85mg
Iron: 1.06mg
Vitamin A: 52.00µg
Vitamin C: 26.15mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Zucchini With Thyme Recipe

To ensure your zucchini cooks evenly, try to cut them into uniform pieces. This not only helps in even cooking but also presents a more appealing dish. Additionally, when cooking with dried thyme, it's best to add it early in the cooking process, like in this recipe, to allow its flavors to fully develop and infuse into the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Zucchini With Thyme

Prep ahead: Chop and store the onions, parsley, and zucchini in advance to save time when cooking the dish.

One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet to cook the zucchini with thyme, reducing the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

High heat: Increase the heat slightly to cook the zucchini faster while maintaining its texture and flavor.

Fresh ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality zucchini and thyme for the best flavor and quicker cooking time.

Thin slices: Cut the zucchini into thin slices to reduce the cooking time and ensure even cooking.

Lid on: Cover the skillet while cooking to help the zucchini cook faster and retain moisture, reducing the overall cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini with Thyme Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and flavor profile to zucchini, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.

Presenting Zucchini With Thyme in Style

Elevate the plating: Arrange the zucchini sticks in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and creating a balanced composition.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic reduction to add visual interest and contrast to the dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the zucchini with thyme on a sleek, minimalist plate or a rustic, earthy platter to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Garnish with edible flowers: Introduce delicate, edible flowers such as nasturtium or borage to add a touch of elegance and a pop of color to the dish.
Add a finishing touch: Just before serving, drizzle a hint of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the zucchini to impart a luxurious sheen and enhance the flavors.
Create height and dimension: Consider stacking the zucchini sticks in a vertical arrangement or incorporating a subtle element of height to create a visually striking presentation.
Incorporate textural elements: Introduce a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dusting of finely grated Parmesan cheese to add texture and depth to the dish.
Pay attention to negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the zucchini to be the focal point while maintaining a sense of balance and sophistication in the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Zucchini With Thyme

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for lifting and flipping ingredients.
Measuring cup: A tool used for accurately measuring liquid and dry ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Small spoons used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Cooking spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating ingredients.
Grater: A tool used for grating ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
Cutting knife: A sharp knife used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting ingredients.
Stove: A cooking appliance used for heating and cooking ingredients in pots and pans.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations used for draining and rinsing ingredients.
Grill: A cooking surface used for grilling and searing ingredients.
Baking dish: A dish used for baking and roasting ingredients in the oven.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.

Storing and Freezing Zucchini With Thyme for Later

To store leftover zucchini with thyme, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you have a large batch of zucchini with thyme that you want to freeze, follow these steps:
1. Cool the cooked zucchini completely.
2. Place the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the zucchini is frozen solid.
4. Transfer the frozen zucchini to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
5. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen zucchini with thyme will keep for up to 6 months in the freezer.
To reheat, simply thaw the frozen zucchini in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and restore moisture.
Keep in mind that frozen and thawed zucchini may have a slightly softer texture than freshly cooked zucchini, but it will still be delicious and flavorful.

The Best Ways to Reheat Zucchini With Thyme Leftovers

Reheat zucchini in a skillet: heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the leftover zucchini with thyme and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor of the dish.
Microwave reheating: place the leftover zucchini in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the zucchini halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. While convenient, this method may result in slightly softer zucchini.
Oven reheating: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover zucchini on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method is ideal for larger portions and helps maintain the texture of the zucchini.
Incorporate into a new dish: use the leftover zucchini as an ingredient in a new recipe, such as a frittata, quiche, or pasta dish. This allows you to create a fresh meal while making use of the leftover zucchini and its flavors.
Cold serving: if you enjoy cold vegetables, consider serving the leftover zucchini with thyme as a chilled side dish or as part of a salad. The flavors will have had time to meld, potentially enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Interesting Trivia About Zucchini With Thyme Recipe

The zucchini with thyme recipe is a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Zucchini is also low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating and nutritious addition to your diet. Additionally, thyme is known for its antibacterial properties and has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits. Enjoy this dish as a flavorful and healthy side dish!

Budget-Friendly: Making Zucchini With Thyme at Home

The zucchini with thyme recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Zucchini is an affordable and versatile vegetable, while thyme is a budget-friendly herb. The addition of olive oil and butter adds richness without breaking the bank. This dish is a great way to make a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending a lot. On a scale of 1-10, the cost-effectiveness of this recipe is a solid 9. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Is This Zucchini Recipe Healthy or Not?

The zucchini with thyme recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it primarily consists of fresh vegetables and herbs. Zucchini is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Additionally, the recipe incorporates onions and parsley, both of which offer unique health benefits, such as antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to enhance its nutritional value:

Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with an additional tablespoon of olive oil to minimize saturated fat content.
Consider adding other nutrient-dense vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or cherry tomatoes to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals in the dish.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as garlic, basil, or red pepper flakes, to add more flavor and potential health benefits without increasing calorie content.
Serve the zucchini dish alongside a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to create a more balanced and satisfying meal.

Our Editor's Take on This Zucchini and Thyme Dish

The zucchini with thyme recipe is a delightful and simple dish that highlights the natural flavors of the zucchini. The combination of thyme, onions, and parsley adds a depth of flavor that complements the zucchini beautifully. The cooking method ensures that the zucchini retains its natural crunch while being infused with the aromatic herbs. This dish is a perfect side for any meal and can be easily customized with additional ingredients such as garlic or lemon zest for added complexity. Overall, it's a versatile and delicious recipe that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Zucchini with Thyme Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus with a balsamic glaze and shaved parmesan

Roasted Carrots: Honey glazed roasted carrots with a sprinkle of fresh dill

Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic bread with a hint of parsley and melted mozzarella cheese

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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Zucchini Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta, a classic Italian dish featuring toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite, making it the perfect way to start any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Zucchini with Thyme Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful dish, as it features fresh zucchini and aromatic thyme. The combination of extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter ensures a rich and flavorful base. The inclusion of onion and fresh parsley adds depth and freshness. The method of gently cooking the zucchini allows it to retain its natural texture and flavor. With these high-quality ingredients and careful preparation, this recipe promises a delicious and trustworthy outcome.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Zucchini with Thyme recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the zucchini with thyme?

The zucchini with thyme typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes to cook, depending on the tenderness of the zucchini and the size of the pieces.

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, you can use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme. Just reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Can I substitute the unsalted butter with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or any other cooking oil of your choice.

How should I slice the zucchini for this recipe?

You can slice the zucchini into sticks or rounds, whichever you prefer. Just ensure that they are of uniform thickness for even cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to add more variety and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.