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Easy One-Pan Garlic Butter Zucchini and Corn Skillet

one-pan garlic butter zucchini and corn skillet - featured image

A quick and simple summer side dish featuring zucchini and corn sautéed in garlic butter, delivering fresh, flavorful, and addictive results with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 ½ cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the zucchinis, cut off the ends, and slice each into about ¼-inch thick half-moons. Slice kernels off fresh corn or thaw frozen corn. Mince garlic cloves finely.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt and foam slightly without browning, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and stir frequently for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add zucchini slices in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a slight golden sear, then stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender but still slightly firm.
  5. Stir in the corn kernels and cook together for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper. If desired, drizzle lemon juice over the skillet and toss to combine.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming; cook zucchini in batches if necessary for better caramelization. Use fresh garlic minced finely but not pulverized to avoid bitterness. Increase heat slightly if excess moisture is released to evaporate water and prevent sogginess. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Add red pepper flakes for heat or Parmesan/feta for a cheesy twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini, corn, garlic butter, summer side dish, easy recipe, one-pan, quick, healthy, vegetarian, gluten-free