Herb Butter Zucchini Fans
Herb Butter Zucchini Fans showcase tender zucchini slices artfully fanned and coated in a fragrant herb butter, perfect as a flavorful side for summer meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened butter, minced parsley, dried tarragon, salt, and pepper; set aside.
- Cut each zucchini into lengthwise slices, leaving slices attached at the stem end. Fan the slices out and spread evenly with the herb butter mixture.
- Place the prepared zucchini in a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan and add water to the pan.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the zucchini are crisp-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or fresh basil into the herb butter. If you don't have tarragon, dill or oregano can be great substitutes. When preparing the zucchini, ensure to slice them evenly for uniform cooking. If you're short on time, pre-made garlic herb butter can save you prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Herb Butter Zucchini Fans are delightful as a side dish for grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with American recipes like barbecue chicken or steak. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a light salad or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any leftover herb butter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the zucchini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to soggy zucchini.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Butter Zucchini Fans contains roughly 465 calories, with 26g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (183% of the Daily Value), calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1607mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the herb butter a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the zucchini.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will complement the dish well without altering the overall taste significantly.
Can I grill the zucchini instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling the zucchini fans adds a delicious smoky flavor. Simply follow the same preparation steps, then place them on a preheated grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning them halfway through to achieve nice grill marks.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).