Are you tired of boring vegetable sides that lack excitement? Get ready to transform your dinner table with this mouthwatering Carrots and Zucchini with Basil recipe that will make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines the sweet earthiness of carrots, the delicate texture of zucchini, and the bold, fresh punch of basil – a true culinary masterpiece that looks like it came straight from a gourmet Italian kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 2 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the vegetables by peeling the carrots and trimming the zucchini ends. Slice both carrots and zucchini into uniform diagonal cuts approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers slightly, indicating it's ready for cooking.
- First, add the sliced carrots to the pan. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. Carrots take slightly longer to cook compared to zucchini.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the pan with the carrots. Continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring gently to combine and allow both vegetables to become tender but still maintain a slight crispness.
- Season the vegetables with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning carefully, tasting as you go to achieve the right balance of flavors.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately sprinkle the freshly chopped basil over the hot vegetables. The residual heat will help release the basil's aromatic oils.
- Transfer the carrots and zucchini to a serving dish, ensuring an even distribution of basil. Serve immediately while the vegetables are warm and fragrant.
Tips
- Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and professional-looking presentation.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor and authentic Italian taste.
- Don't overcrowd the pan – this helps vegetables sauté instead of steaming.
- Fresh basil is key: add it at the very end to preserve its bright, aromatic qualities.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the vegetables at their peak texture and temperature.
- This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
