Description
A quick and flavorful summer squash sauté, this recipe highlights tender sliced summer squashes cooked in olive oil with garlic, seasoned perfectly with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, then finished with fresh basil for a vibrant touch. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a simple yet delicious side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium summer squashes, sliced
Seasonings & Herbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing and infuse the oil with flavor.
- Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to develop a rich garlic aroma.
- Add squash: Add the sliced summer squashes to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the garlic-infused oil.
- Season the squash: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the squash to enhance the flavor with a perfect balance of seasoning and subtle heat.
- Sauté the squash: Cook the squash mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender and slightly golden.
- Add fresh basil: Stir in the fresh chopped basil just before serving to add a fresh and aromatic herbal note to the dish.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh, firm summer squash for best texture and taste.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness and flavor.
- Can be paired with grilled meats, pasta, or rice dishes.
- Use non-stick or well-seasoned skillet for easy cooking and cleanup.
