Summery Roasted Courgettes: A Taste of Sunshine
As summer rolls in, the quest for light and flavorful side dishes becomes a true mission. That’s why today I’m suggesting a dish that tastes of sunshine and conviviality: a side of roasted courgettes that will transform your summer lunches into unforgettable moments.
Childhood Memories: who doesn’t have at least one memory linked to the flavors of summer? For me, the aroma of grilled courgettes mixes with family laughter and evenings spent outdoors. This simple preparation brings with it that sense of home and tradition that only dishes cooked with love can provide.
The stars of our recipe are thinly sliced to absorb every nuance of the aromatic dressing: thinly sliced garlic, freshly chopped parsley, hand-torn basil to keep its aroma intact, all enhanced by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. And if you want to add a crunchy note to your dish, follow our final twist!
All you need is less than half an hour between preparation and cooking to bring to the table this flavorful summer side. Let these roasted courgettes win you over bite after bite!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Quick and easy to make, perfect for a last-minute meal.
- PROS: Delicious and light, ideal for summer.
- CONS: Requires an hour of chilling in the fridge.
- PREPARATION: Fast, ready in just 15 minutes.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 80 calories per serving.
Notes on the Ingredients of the Recipe
- Zucchini: perfect for summer side dishes, packed with fiber and vitamins.
- Garlic: adds an intense flavor and numerous health benefits.
- Parsley and Basil: fresh herbs that enhance the dish.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: lends a rich and healthy flavor to the zucchini.
- Salt and Black Pepper: to adjust the taste and add depth to the flavors.
Nutritional Aspects
Roasted courgettes are a light and healthy side dish, perfect for the summer. Let’s discover their nutritional benefits together:
- Very few calories: only 80 Kcal per serving.
- High water and fiber content: ideal for hydration and digestion.
- Rich in vitamins: especially A and C, great for skin and the immune system.
- Essential minerals: such as potassium, crucial for heart health.
- Extra virgin olive oil: a source of beneficial monounsaturated fats for the heart.
- Garlic and herbs: natural antioxidants that promote overall well-being.
- Low sodium content: a dish friendly to blood pressure.
Perfect Roasted Zucchini Recipe for Summer Sides
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cold running water and drying them with a clean cloth or kitchen paper.
- Remove the ends of the zucchini and cut them lengthwise into slices about half a centimeter thick, to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
- Preheat the grill over high heat and, when it's hot, place the zucchini slices on it, letting them roast until they are golden brown and slightly charred on the edges, turning them only once to cook on both sides.
- As they are ready, transfer the zucchini to a deep serving dish, creating overlapping layers.
- Finely slice the garlic and distribute it over the zucchini along with freshly chopped parsley, basil leaves torn by hand to preserve their aroma, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Season each layer with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before moving on to the next layer.
- Once all the zucchini are seasoned, cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and let it rest in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Notes
Variations for Roasted Zucchini Recipe
Add your own twist to the basic recipe with these variations:
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the zucchini before serving for an extra flavorful touch
- Swap the garlic for red onion for a sweeter taste
- Dust the zucchini with chili flakes for a spicy kick
- Layer slices of tomato while arranging for a fresh addition
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
If you’re unsure about how to make perfect roasted zucchini, you’ll find answers to the most common questions here.
How can I make the roasted zucchini more crispy?
To add a crispy touch, sprinkle each layer of zucchini with toasted almond flakes before refrigerating. This will add texture and flavor to your roasted zucchini.
How long should I let the zucchini rest in the refrigerator?
Let the zucchini rest in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to blend perfectly. This will allow the spices and oil to blend with the zucchini, making the dish even more delicious.
How can I store leftover roasted zucchini?
You can store leftover roasted zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Be sure to drizzle them with a bit of oil to keep them fresh and flavorful.
