Sauteed Zucchini with Feta and Corn

Sauteed zucchini gets an upgrade with caramelized sweet corn and feta! This side dish is super simple yet BIG on flavor. Even my 5 year old loves it!

Why You'll Love it:

This easy sauteed zucchini has all the things - a little bit of sweetness from the corn, creamy feta, herbs, and tender zucchini. It really is delish!

• Easy to make - Once you prep the zucchini, garlic, and shallots, everything comes together super quickly in one skillet.
• Veggie-forward - Zucchini and corn are the stars of this side dish!
• Delicious - My 5 year old loves sauteed zucchini thanks to this recipe. Score!

It might just turn into one of your weekly rotating recipes! It goes great with any protein.

Key Ingredients:

• Olive oil - Encourages the corn to caramelize in the hot skillet!
• Sweet corn - Pairs well with the earthy zucchini.
• Unsalted butter - Adds flavor to the entire dish!
• Shallots - You can find shallots in the produce aisle near the onions and garlic. They look like small, elongated onions.
• Spices/herbs - Onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, and basil take the flavor up a notch.
• Zucchini - Look for two medium-sized zucchini that are bright green with no soft spots, a total of 19 ounces.
• Garlic - Jarred garlic works in a pinch, but I always recommend fresh. It's more aromatic and without preservatives.
• Feta cheese - The feta melts slightly on the hot zucchini and it's magic.

How to Make Sauteed Zucchini with Corn:

Before you start, you want to get all the ingredients out and ready. This makes the process super easy! Drain the corn, cut the veggies, etc.

• Caramelize corn - Dump the corn into a hot skillet with olive oil and let it sit, undisturbed against the hot pan. It should start to caramelize and will continue to do so as you cook the recipe.
• Add shallots - Reduce the heat so the butter doesn't burn, then add the butter and shallots.

• Season - Season the mixture with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Continue to cook so the shallots soften and the corn caramelizes.
• Add zucchini - Add the zucchini, minced garlic, and herbs. Cook the zucchini to your desired doneness. I prefer mine tender but firm.
• Top with feta - Top with feta cheese and give it one stir so the feta starts to melt. Enjoy immediately!

Expert Tips:

• Gather your ingredients - Don't start the recipe until you gather and prep your ingredients! It comes together really fast and doing this prevents you from scrambling around.
• Let the corn caramelize - Resist the urge to stir the corn initially! Letting it sit against the skillet will deepen its flavor.
• Cook the zucchini how you like it. All my taste testers preferred it cooked differently. If you like it softer, cook it a bit longer. If you like it firmer, cook it for less time.

Storage:

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat leftovers in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I swap the zucchini with yellow squash?

Yes! Zucchini and yellow squash have a similar taste and texture that work well for swapping. Yellow squash is slightly sweeter than zucchini with yellow skin, otherwise it tastes the same!

How do I sauté zucchini without it getting mushy?

Cut it thicker and cook it for less time! That's why the zucchini goes in the skillet towards the end. It allows the corn and shallots to cook and caramelize before you add the zucchini. Zucchini is 94% water so it will get mushy if you overcook it!

Easy Side Dish Recipes:

• 10 Minute Garlic Butter Broccoli
• Grilled Corn with Lemon Herb Butter
• How to Cook Canned Corn - Two Ways
• Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts