Serves 1
Directions
- 1Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2Slice the zucchini lengthwise and score the tops.
- 3Place the zucchini on a plate and salt the tops generously, then let them sit for 10 minutes.
- 4While the zucchini sits, prepare the honey-garlic butter by adding softened butter, olive oil, honey, salt, parsley, minced garlic, and pepper to a small bowl.
- 5Mix the ingredients together to form a paste and set aside.
- 6Use a paper towel to remove moisture from the tops of the zucchini.
- 7Heat a cast iron pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil.
- 8Place the zucchini face down in the hot pan.
- 9Place a heavy pan on top to press the zucchini down and sear for 2 minutes, until the tops are browned.
- 10Flip the zucchini over and place in the oven for 10 minutes.
- 11Remove the zucchini from the oven.
- 12Place a spoonful of the honey-garlic butter over each zucchini and spread it over the tops.
- 13Place them back in the oven for 10-12 more minutes, until tender.
- 14Plate the zucchini.
- 15Top with arugula, pine nuts, and goat cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- salt
- olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp parsley
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- pepper
- 0.25 cup chopped arugula
- 3 tbsp crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
Equipment
knifeplatesmall bowlspoonpaper towelcast iron panheavy skilletheavy pan
Tips
- For more browned tops, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
- Do not rinse the zucchini after salting to remove moisture; simply pat dry with a paper towel.
- Press zucchini with a heavy pan during searing to achieve a nice crisp crust on the scored side.
- Use softened butter for the honey-garlic butter mixture to ensure it combines well into a paste.
- Score the zucchini tops to allow the butter to penetrate and flavor the zucchini more effectively.
- Salt the zucchini generously and let sit to draw out excess moisture, which helps in crisping the zucchini during searing.
- Spread the honey-garlic butter evenly over each zucchini half after the initial baking to ensure full flavor coverage.
- The honey-garlic butter zucchini is best served immediately after roasting to enjoy its warm, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- The combination of salty, garlicky, and sweet in the butter creates a balanced flavor profile for the zucchini.
- Adding greens, goat cheese, and toasted pine nuts provides additional texture, flavor, and visual appeal to the dish.
- This recipe makes an epic side dish that is both healthy and flavorful, perfect for summer meals.
- The recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Cooking zucchini with this method creates a "melt-in-your-mouth" texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- The scoring technique on the zucchini allows for better absorption of flavors and a more even cook.
- Utilizing a heavy pan for searing helps achieve a perfectly crisp and browned exterior on the zucchini.
- The oven roasting after searing ensures the zucchini becomes tender throughout.
- The dish is versatile and can complement various main courses, serving as a delicious and easy-to-prepare vegetable side.
- The ingredients are readily available, making this a convenient recipe to prepare for a quick meal or gathering.
- The visual appeal of the scored and browned zucchini, topped with fresh greens and cheese, makes it an attractive dish to serve.
- This recipe encourages cooking from scratch, promoting healthier eating habits.
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