Cut the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and cut them into smaller pieces—either rounds, half-moons, or bite-sized chunks, depending on your preference.
Fry the Zucchini: Heat a little vegetable oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the zucchini pieces and sauté them until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Once golden and tender, transfer the zucchini to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms and Peppers
Cut the Mushrooms and Pepper: Clean the mushrooms and cut them into smaller pieces. Dice the bell pepper into similar-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Cook the Mushrooms and Pepper: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, and heat over medium-high. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and develop a golden crust, about 5 minutes.
Add the Bell Pepper and Butter: Add the diced bell pepper to the pan with the mushrooms. Stir in 20 g (0.7 oz) of butter. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened but still vibrant.
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Seasonings
Add the Garlic: Finely chop 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the pan with the mushrooms and peppers. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Season and Combine: Return the fried zucchini to the pan. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried basil over the vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Add the Parmesan: Sprinkle 30 g (1 oz) of grated Parmesan cheese over the sautéed vegetables. Stir gently until the cheese melts and coats the vegetables, adding a rich, savory depth to the dish.
Serve Warm: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and enjoy your Zucchini with Mushrooms and Peppers while warm.
Tips for the Best Zucchini with Mushrooms and Peppers
For an Extra Kick: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
Spice It Up: If you like spicy food, add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili.
Experiment with Mushrooms: Try different varieties of mushrooms like oyster mushrooms or shiitake for unique textures and flavors.
Vegetable Swap: If zucchini isn’t available, eggplant can be an excellent substitute, offering a slightly meatier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with fresh bread, pita, or a warm baguette for dipping.
Serve alongside a bowl of steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
Complement with a side of fresh salad for a balanced, light meal.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
