Summer is officially here, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and get creative with fresh produce. One of our favorite ways to enjoy the season’s bounty is by steaming zucchini to perfection and serving it up with a variety of delicious toppings and sauces. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this humble summer squash.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and parmesan, to more adventurous pairings like chili-lime and sesame seeds, there’s something for everyone in our collection of steamed zucchini recipes. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a main course that’s sure to impress, these ideas will keep your taste buds happy all summer long.
Garlic Butter Steamed Zucchini
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the best in zucchini, with the added bonus of aromatic garlic and rich butter. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the water.
3. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices or leave whole, depending on your preference.
4. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
5. Place the zucchini in the steamer basket and dot with garlic butter mixture.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until zucchinis are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Season with salt to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Herb Steamed Zucchini
Brighten up your meal with this light and refreshing zucchini recipe, infused with the citrusy flavor of lemon and the subtle hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into bite-sized pieces and place them in a heatproof dish.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis, followed by minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
4. Squeeze lemon juice evenly over the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam the zucchinis for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Parmesan and Basil
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare zucchini, perfect as a side dish or light lunch. The combination of steamed zucchini, nutty Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchinis under cold water, then slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the zucchini slices in a single layer.
3. Steam the zucchini over boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese and garlic.
5. Remove the zucchinis from the steamer and top each slice with the Parmesan mixture.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chili-Lime Steamed Zucchini
This recipe adds a kick of spice and a burst of citrus to the classic steamed zucchini, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup chili-lime seasoning (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. In a bowl, mix together chili-lime seasoning, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Place the zucchini slices in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Toasted Almonds
This simple yet flavorful side dish brings together the natural sweetness of zucchini and the crunch of toasted almonds, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the zucchini slices in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each slice.
4. Steam the zucchini for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
5. While the zucchini is steaming, toast the almonds by placing them in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until golden brown and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
6. Remove the zucchini from the steamer and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Steamed Zucchini
Add a touch of elegance to your veggie plate with this easy-to-make recipe for balsamic glazed steamed zucchini. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly balances the natural flavor of the zucchini, making it a great side dish or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices and place them in the steamer basket.
3. Steam the zucchini for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and brush the glaze over the steamed zucchini.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy side dish. With only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the sweet taste of summer in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add zucchini slices and cherry tomatoes to the steamer basket.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Miso-Ginger Steamed Zucchini
Elevate your zucchini game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the savory umami of miso paste with the spicy warmth of ginger. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, grated ginger, and water until smooth.
3. Place the zucchini slices in a steamer basket. Pour the miso-ginger mixture over the zucchini.
4. Steam for 6-8 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Feta and Mint
A refreshing summer side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini, paired with tangy feta and a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices, leaving skin on.
3. In a large bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Steam zucchini for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta and chopped mint leaves.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Steamed Zucchini
Add a burst of flavor to your vegetable side dish with this simple and delicious recipe for Cajun-Spiced Steamed Zucchini. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchinis and trim both ends.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the zucchinis, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
3. Add salt to taste, if desired.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer and steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
This refreshing side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering a burst of flavor and nutrients. The combination of steamed zucchini and creamy garlic yogurt sauce is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchinis and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the zucchini slices in a single layer.
3. Steam the zucchini over boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix together the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Once the zucchini is cooked, remove it from the steamer and serve with the garlic yogurt sauce spooned on top.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Zucchini and Corn Medley
A delightful summer side dish that highlights the freshness of zucchini and corn. This medley is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, combine the zucchini slices.
2. Add the corn kernels on top of the zucchinis.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Steam over boiling water until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai-Inspired Coconut Steamed Zucchini
Add a touch of exotic flavor to your summer vegetables with this simple and aromatic recipe. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this Thai-inspired coconut steamed zucchini is a refreshing twist on traditional steaming.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with 2-3 inches of water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, coconut oil, ginger, and lime juice.
4. Place the zucchini slices in a single layer in the steamer basket.
5. Pour the coconut mixture over the zucchini, making sure they’re well coated.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A simple yet flavorful side dish that brings together the sweetness of zucchini and the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the zucchini slices in a single layer.
2. Steam the zucchini over boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. While the zucchini is steaming, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
5. Remove the zucchini from the steamer and toss with the sun-dried tomato mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Steamed Zucchini
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini while infusing it with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and thyme. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices or leave them whole if you prefer.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped rosemary, thyme, and olive oil.
4. Place the zucchini slices in the steamer basket and drizzle with the rosemary-thyme mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Sesame Seeds and Soy Sauce
A simple and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds and a hint of savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and steam zucchini slices for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and water. Pour the mixture over the steamed zucchini.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of the zucchini.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Zucchini and Mushroom Mix
This recipe is a simple and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious mix of zucchini and mushrooms that pairs well with many main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the zucchinis and slice them into thin rounds.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the zucchini slices in a single layer.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms on top of the zucchinis.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam for 10-12 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Zucchini with Pesto Drizzle
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy side dish or as a vegetarian main course. By combining the natural sweetness of zucchini with the savory goodness of pesto, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the zucchini slices in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each slice for even cooking.
4. Steam the zucchini for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly softened.
5. In a small bowl, mix the pesto sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the zucchini is cooked, remove it from the steamer and drizzle with the pesto mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Stay cool this summer with these 18 mouth-watering steamed zucchini recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Steamed Zucchini and Parmesan and Basil to international twists like Thai-Inspired Coconut Steamed Zucchini and Cajun-Spiced Steamed Zucchini, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a flavorful main course, these recipes showcase the versatility of this summer staple. Try one (or many!) today and elevate your cooking game!
