10 Delicious Zucchini Side Dishes You Need to Try

Fans of zucchini know that this versatile vegetable can transform any meal into something special. From simple sautés to zesty bakes, these delicious zucchini side dishes are sure to impress your diners without taking all day to prepare. Get ready to spice up your dinner table!

Herbed Zucchini And Tomato Bake

This Herbed Zucchini and Tomato Bake is a colorful and tasty side dish that brings together fresh vegetables in a delightful way. The layers of zucchini, tomatoes, and yellow squash create a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for any meal. Topped with herbs and cheese, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and healthy.

The vibrant colors of the zucchini and tomatoes pop against the backdrop of the baking dish. Fresh basil leaves add a touch of green, enhancing the visual appeal. This dish not only looks great but also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma as it bakes.

Making this dish is simple and rewarding. Start by slicing your vegetables and layering them in a baking dish. Sprinkle with your favorite herbs, a bit of cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake until everything is tender and the cheese is golden. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce and can be served alongside grilled meats or as a light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, arrange the sliced zucchini, tomatoes, and yellow squash in an overlapping pattern.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles

Garlic butter zucchini noodles are a fantastic way to enjoy a light and tasty dish. The image shows a plate of beautifully twirled zucchini noodles, glistening with a rich garlic butter sauce. Topped with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs, this dish is both simple and satisfying.

These noodles are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal. The garlic adds a wonderful aroma, while the butter gives it a creamy texture. Plus, zucchini is a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making it a favorite among those looking for healthier options.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Fresh zucchini is spiralized into noodles, then sautéed in a mix of garlic and butter until tender. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or basil completes the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchinis into noodles. Set aside.
2. Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Zucchini: Toss the zucchini noodles into the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Season: Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Serve: Plate the noodles and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter zucchini noodles!

Zucchini And Mushroom Risotto

Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. This zucchini and mushroom risotto is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender zucchini and earthy mushrooms blend perfectly with the creamy rice, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

The image showcases a bowl of risotto topped with sautéed zucchini and mushrooms, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese. The vibrant green zucchini contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice, making it visually appealing. This dish is not only tasty but also a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.

Making this risotto is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. Perfect as a side or a main course, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat to keep it warm.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and zucchini, cooking until tender.
3. Add Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for about 2 minutes. If using, pour in the white wine and let it absorb.
4. Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
5. Finish the Risotto: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious zucchini and mushroom risotto!

Zesty Lemon Garlic Zucchini

When it comes to side dishes, zucchini often shines with its mild flavor and versatility. This Zesty Lemon Garlic Zucchini recipe brings a refreshing twist that’s perfect for any meal. The vibrant green of the zucchini slices, paired with the bright yellow of fresh lemon, makes for a visually appealing dish.

In the image, you can see beautifully sautéed zucchini rounds, glistening with olive oil and sprinkled with garlic. The addition of herbs like parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. This dish is not just about looks; it’s packed with taste. The lemon juice brightens the zucchini, while garlic adds a savory depth.

Making this dish is simple and quick. You can whip it up in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. Everyone will love the zesty kick!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the flavors meld.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Mediterranean Zucchini Salad

This Mediterranean Zucchini Salad is a colorful and fresh dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. The vibrant green zucchini and yellow squash are sliced thinly, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors. Juicy cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness, while olives bring a briny touch that perfectly complements the veggies.

Feta cheese crumbles sprinkled on top add a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, making each bite delightful. Drizzled with a simple olive oil dressing, this salad is not only easy to make but also a great side for any meal. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a light lunch on a warm day.

To make this salad, you’ll need a few fresh ingredients. Let’s gather what you need:

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 1 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the feta cheese on top and give it another light toss.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Balsamic Glazed Roasted Zucchini

Balsamic glazed roasted zucchini is a simple yet delightful side dish that brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. The image showcases beautifully roasted zucchini slices, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, making them look both appetizing and elegant. The vibrant green of the zucchini contrasts nicely with the dark glaze, and the fresh rosemary adds a touch of color and flavor.

This dish is perfect for any meal, whether you're grilling outdoors or cooking in the kitchen. The balsamic glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini, creating a balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

To make this delicious side, you’ll need just a few ingredients and a little bit of time. Roasting the zucchini brings out its tenderness while the glaze adds a tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with many main dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the zucchini is well coated.
3. Spread the zucchini slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the zucchini is roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let it reduce for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Once the zucchini is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Zucchini And Bell Pepper Skewers

Grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh vegetables, and zucchini and bell pepper skewers are a perfect choice. These skewers are colorful, healthy, and packed with flavor. The vibrant greens of zucchini paired with the bright reds and yellows of bell peppers create an inviting dish that looks as good as it tastes.

To make these skewers, start by cutting zucchini and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. You can also add some onions or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. Thread the veggies onto skewers, alternating colors for a beautiful presentation. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper will enhance their natural flavors.

Grill the skewers over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and have nice grill marks. Serve them hot as a side dish or even as a main course with a grain or salad.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and tomatoes onto skewers, alternating colors.
3. Marinate: Brush the skewers with the marinade and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
4. Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until veggies are tender.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy!

Zucchini Parmesan Bake

Zucchini Parmesan Bake is a delightful dish that brings out the best of fresh zucchini. The image showcases a golden-brown, cheesy bake, topped with fresh herbs. This side dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.

The layers of zucchini, cheese, and herbs create a comforting meal that pairs well with many main courses. The melted cheese on top adds a rich texture, making it hard to resist. Freshly sliced zucchini sits alongside the bake, hinting at the freshness of the ingredients used.

This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. It’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
3. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Zucchini And Sausage Skillet

This Zucchini and Sausage Skillet is a fantastic dish that combines fresh zucchini with savory sausage. The vibrant green of the zucchini contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown sausage, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The steam rising from the skillet hints at the delicious flavors that are about to unfold.

Cooking this dish is simple and quick, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. The combination of zucchini and sausage provides a hearty meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 pound sausage (Italian or your choice), sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and zucchini, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Crispy Zucchini And Bacon Bites

Crispy zucchini and bacon bites are a delightful treat that brings together the freshness of zucchini and the savory richness of bacon. These bites are perfect as a side dish or a snack. The golden-brown crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy filling and crispy bacon on top make each bite irresistible.

To prepare these tasty bites, start by slicing zucchini into rounds. You’ll want them to be thick enough to hold their shape but not too thick that they won’t cook through. After that, dip each slice in a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings, then bake or fry until crispy. Top with a dollop of cream cheese and crispy bacon bits for that extra flavor punch.

These bites are not just delicious; they are also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Serve them at your next gathering, and watch them disappear!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides.
5. Place the coated zucchini on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top each slice with a dollop of cream cheese and sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.