Simple Homemade Garlic Lemon Butter Roasted Zucchini

January 15, 2025

Zucchini lovers, rejoice! This Simple Garlic Lemon Butter Roasted Zucchini recipe is a game-changer. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! That zingy lemon, rich butter, and garlicky goodness turn humble zucchini into a side dish that steals the show. Ready to roast your way to deliciousness? Let’s go!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Zucchini lovers, gather ‘round, because this recipe is about to make your day brighter (and tastier)! Picture this: tender zucchini slices coated in fragrant garlic, bold lemon zest, and indulgent melted butter, roasted to golden perfection. It’s the side dish you didn’t know you were craving, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. If you’re in the mood for something simple yet outrageously flavorful, this Garlic Lemon Butter Roasted Zucchini is the perfect pick-me-up for your plate. It’s quick, easy, and, dare I say, kind of fancy in the flavor department!

Simple Homemade Garlic Lemon Butter Roasted Zucchini Recipe

What makes this recipe truly special is the magical trifecta of butter, garlic, and lemon. The butter creates a luscious base that coats every piece of zucchini, while the garlic adds that earthy, slightly sweet punch we all know and love. And don’t even get me started on the lemon zest and juice—it’s like the sunshine on top of an already perfect day, adding brightness and tang that elevates the whole dish. This recipe takes humble zucchini and transforms it into something you’ll want to serve at every meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a celebration feast. Trust me, it’s THAT good.

Now, let me give you a few tips to make this dish an absolute knockout. First, don’t skimp on the lemon zest—it’s the secret weapon here, adding depth and complexity (and it smells amazing!). Also, make sure to cut your zucchini into even slices so they cook evenly. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or crispy breadcrumbs on top before roasting for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Oh, and pro tip: place your zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet. Overcrowding can make the pieces steam instead of roast, and we want that crispy, caramelized goodness, don’t we?

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven and let’s bring this dish to life! Serve Garlic Lemon Butter Roasted Zucchini alongside some roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even on its own as a vegetarian centerpiece. Feeling creative? Toss it with some cooked pasta or grains for a hearty, main-meal twist. The best part about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can tweak it to suit your taste buds or whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. Once you try it, you’ll see just how delightful and fuss-free it is to make zucchini shine like the star it truly is.

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Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
•2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 tablespoon olive oil
•1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
•1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
•1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, finely chopped)
•1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
•1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice.
3
Arrange the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4
Brush the butter mixture generously over the zucchini slices, ensuring they are well coated.
5
Sprinkle the zucchini with salt, black pepper, dried parsley (or fresh parsley), and optional red pepper flakes.
6
Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and lightly golden around the edges.
7
Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the final 2-3 minutes of baking for added flavor.
8
Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories

85 calories

Protein

Carbs

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different vegetable instead of zucchini?

A: Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or even thinly sliced carrots. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetable you choose, so monitor them while roasting to avoid overcooking.

Q: What can I use instead of butter?

A: If you want to avoid butter, you can use additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The flavor may be slightly different, but the recipe will still work well.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Q: How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Q: What can I do if my zucchini turns out soggy?

A: If your zucchini turns out soggy, it may be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or overcooking. Ensure the zucchini slices are arranged in a single layer with space between them for proper roasting. Also, check for doneness around the 12-minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I add other seasonings or herbs to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! You can customize the flavor by adding spices like paprika, Italian seasoning, or cumin. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Q: What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

A: This roasted zucchini pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or steak as a side dish. You can also toss it into pasta, rice, or salads for a delicious and healthy addition. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or lentils.

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