Italian Courgettes Side Dish

Are you looking for a new side dish to serve with your favourite protein? If so, today I have an easy but delicious recipe to share. It’s a great one to serve with fish, chicken and meats. You can also add it to your plain pasta, or eat it as part of a vegetarian lifestyle. Keep reading and let’s make it together.

Cooking With Courgettes FAQ

What is the best way to eat courgettes?

Courgettes, also known as zucchinis, are a very versatile vegetable and can be prepared in numerous ways. They can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, or eaten raw in salads. They can also be spiralized to make ‘courgetti’ as a low-carb pasta alternative, or stuffed with meat or other vegetables and baked.

What can I do with too many courgettes?

If you have an abundance of courgettes, consider pickling or freezing them for later use. You can also make courgette-based soups, breads, or muffins. Courgettes can also be used in various dishes such as pastas, stir-fries, or as a topping for pizzas.

What does zucchini pair well with?

Zucchini (or courgette) pairs well with a variety of ingredients including tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, garlic, onion, and herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. It also complements cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, and goat cheese, and can be used in dishes with chicken, beef, or fish.

Should courgettes be peeled before cooking?

Courgettes do not need to be peeled before cooking—their skin is thin, edible, and full of fiber. However, if the courgettes are very large, the skin might be tougher and can be peeled off if preferred.

How can I add flavor to courgettes?

Courgettes soak up flavors really well, so marinating them in herbs and olive oil before grilling or roasting can add a lot of flavor. They can also be sautéed with garlic and onions for a tasty side dish.

Can courgettes be eaten raw?

Yes, courgettes can be eaten raw and are a great addition to salads. They can be thinly sliced or spiralized into courgette ‘noodles’ or ‘ribbons’.

How long do courgettes take to cook?

Courgettes are quick to cook. Depending on the cooking method and the size of the pieces, courgettes can take anywhere from 5 minutes (sautéed or thinly sliced) up to 20 minutes (roasted or grilled). It’s best to cook courgettes until they are tender but still retain some bite.

Easy Courgettes Side Dish Recipe

Aromatic Italian Courgettes Side Dish

Alessia

A quick, easy and aromatic Italian courgettes side dish that you can serve with any protein - from fish to chicken and meats. It's delicious!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

1 chopping board
1 chopping knife
1 large pan
1 silicone spoon

Ingredients

2 large courgettes
2 garlic cloves
Belmorso Extra Virgin Olive Oil 5 lt or Novello, if you already got it.
40 gr pre-grated parmesan or you can great your own
sale and pepper
oregano, fresh or dry
30 gr breadcrumbs packed or make your own.

Instructions

Peel and mince the garlic.
Wash, peel and slice the zucchini. Feel free to keep the skin on, if you prefer. I cut mine into thin half moon, but quarters will make the cooking quicker.
Sauté the garlic in 1 tablespoon EVOO.
Add the cut courgettes and one tablespoon Belmorso EVOO.
Season with salt and pepper, and add the oregano. Mix well and leave to cook.
After 10 to 15 minutes, once the courgettes are halfway through reaching your desired consistency, add the breadcrumbs and parmesan. Mix well.
Lower the heat, and leave to cook for 5 to 10 more minutes. Make sure to keep mixing so they don't stick or burn.
Take off the heat and serve with your protein.