Zucchini stew

Zucchini sauté: a simple, healthy, and delicious dish, perfect for a quick dinner or as a side to various main courses. This recipe transforms zucchini, a versatile ingredient, into a savory dish that will surely impress any vegetable lover. I will show you step by step how to prepare sautéed zucchini, providing you with some useful tips to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 500 g)
- 1 large onion (preferably white or yellow)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh if available)
- Optional: 2-3 cloves of garlic (for a more intense flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by peeling the zucchinis. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, then grate them on a large grater. This process will not only make the zucchinis easier to cook, but it will also help release the water inside. Place the grated zucchinis in a large bowl and sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of salt on top. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, during which the salt will extract excess water.

2. Preparing the onion: While the zucchinis are draining, finely chop the onion. You can use a knife or a food processor to achieve uniform pieces. For an extra flavor boost, you can add chopped garlic at this point if you enjoy its intense taste.

3. Cooking the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. If you chose to use garlic, add it now and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

4. Adding the zucchinis: After the zucchinis have sat, squeeze them well to remove excess water. This step is essential to avoid a dish that is too wet. Add the grated zucchinis to the skillet over the onion and mix well. Cook the mixture over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice how the zucchinis soften and take on a pleasant texture.

5. Seasoning: Finally, add the black pepper and dried dill. Mix well to integrate the flavors. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to develop.

6. Serving: Sautéed zucchini is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain as a vegetarian main dish or as a side with meat or fish. An interesting option is to serve it topped with crumbled feta cheese or with some toasted nuts for added texture.

Personal suggestion: If you want to experiment, you can add halved cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking to bring a sweet-tangy flavor and a splash of color to your dish.

This simple sautéed zucchini recipe is not only quick but also healthy, providing an excellent option for those who want to bring vegetables to the forefront. By experimenting with various spices and ingredients, you can transform this dish into a unique meal tailored to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!