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Fresh vegetables are tossed in a mixture of oil and spices before being quickly cooked to create this irresistible skillet of Sauteed Zucchini and Onions.
Sauteed Zucchini and Onions
Inspired by the Indian Chicken Bites we’ve been making for over ten years now, this flavorful zucchini and onion skillet was everything I imagined it might be.
This zucchini and onion saute was absolutely taken over the top by the spice blend. It takes the earthy sweetness of these vegetables and adds just the right amount of flavor and heat to transform them into a phenomenal side dish.
this recipe rocks the hizzy! the spice blend is delish. this is my go-to recipe going forward. 😋 added some Za’atar spice to kick it up a notch here.
How Long to Saute Zucchini
If you’re not sure how long to saute zucchini, you can’t go wrong checking out this guide I’ve made for the process. The cooking time for this recipe will vary depending on the size of the vegetables.
We like our zucchini to retain a good bit of crispness, so I always err on the side of undercooking it. If you prefer yours a bit more tender, feel free to cook to your own desired doneness.
Zucchini and Onions
These two vegetables are so versatile. I use them all of the time. They have wonderful flavor and texture, no matter the method of preparation. (Just don’t overcook the zucchini and you’ll enjoy it too!) I enjoy them roasted, grilled, or sauteed as in this recipe.
In fact, sometimes I feel a lot like Sam-I-Am with zucchini. I like them when they make a boat. And, I like them in meatloaf. I like them when they’re sliced and cheesed. And, zucchini stir fry is quite nice, indeed!
Sauteed Zucchini Recipes
Interested in more sauteed zucchini recipes? Served on its own or over Vegetable Rice or noodles, my whole family really enjoys this Zucchini Stir Fry with Chicken. It’s the perfect solution to a busy weeknight dinner.
Smoked Sausage Vegetable Stir Fry is a complete meal, in one pan, on the table in less than 20 minutes. The best part is the amazing flavors that are created with just a few ingredients!
Straight from the farmer’s market, Zucchini with Corn is a side dish worth talking about and sharing at your next cookout.
If you know how to cook Zucchini Noodles you can have a healthy and delicious side dish ready to eat in just minutes – perfectly seasoned with just butter and herbs or topped with your favorite Pasta Sauce.
Have you ever tried Zucchini Cobbler? Trust me, it’s not what you’d expect. Deliciously firm yet tender zucchini and a surprisingly apple-like flavor will make this dessert a staple in your kitchen.
Sauteed Zucchini and Onions
Ingredients
- 3 large Italian zucchini halved and cut into ⅓-½inch slices, about 6 cups
- 1 large yellow onion sliced thin, about 1 cup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked or plain paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
Instructions
- Place the zucchini and onions in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, cumin, thyme, paprika, garlic, turmeric, and cayenne. Toss well to coat.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the vegetables to the pan and cook while stirring frequently, for about 6-8 minutes. When the zucchini is tender-crisp, with plenty of bite remaining, remove from the pan. Take care not to overcook.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I added a can of fire-roasted tomatoes, drained, and a teaspoon minced garlic. Outstanding. Will try this and serve over pasta soon.
Oh! I bet it was great with the tomatoes added too!
I have a question about adding spinach to Zucchini & Onions.
That should work fine. I’d add a handful or two of roughly chopped baby spinach about halfway through the cooking time.
I used half the cayenne pepper and still found it spicy
You can skip it entirely if the heat isn’t your thing, Keith.
this recipe rocks the hizzy!
the spice blend is delish
this is my go-to recipe going forward 😋
added some Za’atar spice to kick it up a notch
I’m so happy to hear you’re enjoying the recipe. I bet it was great with the Za’atar too!
delicious!!!
I’m glad you enjoyed the recipe, Amy!
Why is this recipe so huge? My whole family wouldn’t eat this much at a meal—it’s a SIDE DISH, not the whole meal!
Hi, Donna! You can scale the measurements for the recipe to fit your family’s requirements; we usually make enough to have some excess left over.