Zucchini Provencal
A vibrant Provençal zucchini dish featuring tender squash, tomatoes, and green peppers, seasoned with garlic and herbs, perfect for a light, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil.
- Add the zucchini, tomatoes, green pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Stir and let simmer until the zucchini is cooked, firm, and not mushy.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with minced parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or basil while sautéing the onions and garlic. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned tomatoes work perfectly in this dish. You can substitute zucchini with yellow squash or even eggplant for a different twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of cream can enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Zucchini Provencal as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Onion-Olive Focaccia or can be enjoyed on its own with crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Rio Grande Spinach Salad for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Provencal contains roughly 367 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (254% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 Zucchini Provencal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply sauté the vegetables and let them cool before storing them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat gently to preserve the texture. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or a vegan cheese substitute if you prefer a plant-based option.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! Zucchini Provencal is entirely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese. It's a hearty dish packed with vegetables, making it a great addition to any vegetarian recipes collection.
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).