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–+ servings
Mary Kelly

Parmesan Zucchini Corn

When it comes to delicious home-cooked meals, finding a perfect pairing can elevate your dish. So here I am, eager to share how Parmesan Zucchini Corn can become the star of your dinner table while also complementing some delightful sides.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 4 medium zucchini cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels frozen, canned, or lightly roasted
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon dried sweet basil
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon toasted pine nuts

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
  1. Start by gathering your ingredients. Rinse your zucchini and corn, chop the garlic, and have your spices ready. This will streamline the cooking process and make it more efficient.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Zucchini
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the cubed zucchini. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender and turns a vibrant green.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Corn
  1. Next, stir in your sweet corn. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to let it thaw first. Mix it all together and allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes, just enough for the corn to warm up.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
  1. Now it's time to season! Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
Step 5: Mix in Fresh Ingredients
  1. Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the fresh lime juice over the zucchini corn mixture. Add the chopped cilantro and gently mix. The fresh herbs will brighten up the dish.
Step 6: Incorporate Cheese and Nuts
  1. Finally, sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts over the top. Give it a gentle toss to combine all ingredients.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 12gFiber: 3g

Notes

Here are some tried-and-true tips to elevate your Parmesan Zucchini Corn:
  • Choose Fresh, Seasonal Produce: Fresh zucchini and sweet corn make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you can get them from a local farmer’s market, do it!
  • Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Keep the zucchini tender but still slightly crisp. Overcooked zucchini can become mushy.
  • Adjust the Heat Level: If you like a bit more kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes, or even add some diced jalapeño.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan is fantastic, try Pecorino or a mix of hard cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  • Garnish is Key: Always top with fresh herbs before serving for that extra burst of flavor and color.

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