Fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious, Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms make for an ideal side dish! This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also brings together the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and delightful taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this flavorful side in no time.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this dish is low in calories while being high in nutrients.
- Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of main dishes like grilled chicken, steak, or pasta.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, herbs, and butter creates a savory experience that elevates any meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand for a unique twist each time!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing multiple ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
- Cutting board: Keeps your workspace clean while safely preparing your ingredients.
Ingredients
Fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious side dish of sauteed mushrooms and zucchini!
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 small zucchini (cut into thin, half moon slices)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
- 1 pound small button mushrooms (cleaned and patted dry)
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped herbs (or use 1 teaspoon dried herbs like thyme or oregano)
For the Liquid
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated parmesan

How to Make Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Add olive oil and 1/2-tablespoon butter to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Cook the Zucchini
Add zucchini slices to the hot oil; season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until fork-tender. Remove zucchini from skillet and set aside. If there’s any liquid in the skillet, wipe it out.
Step 3: Sauté Onions
Return the skillet to the burner and add remaining butter. Melt butter over medium-high heat. Stir in onions and cook for about 2 minutes until just softened.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms
Add mushrooms to the skillet; cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender and nicely browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Incorporate Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic and fresh herbs; cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return zucchini to the skillet. Mix with mushrooms; cook for approximately 1 minute until heated through.
Step 7: Add Vegetable Broth
Pour in vegetable broth; let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 8: Final Touches
Taste for salt and pepper; adjust as needed. Remove skillet from heat.
Step 9: Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated parmesan before serving. Enjoy your Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms!
How to Serve Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Side Dish
- Grilled Chicken: The juicy flavors of grilled chicken complement the earthy taste of zucchini and mushrooms perfectly.
- Steak: Serve alongside a perfectly cooked steak for a hearty meal that balances richness with fresh vegetables.
- Pasta: Toss the sautéed zucchini and mushrooms with your favorite pasta for an easy, flavorful dish.
In Tacos
- Vegetable Tacos: Use skillet zucchini and mushrooms as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos, topped with avocados and salsa.
- Chicken Tacos: Add to chicken tacos for a refreshing twist that brings color and nutrition to your meal.
On Toast
- Savory Toast: Spread some ricotta cheese on toast and top it with the sautéed vegetables for a delightful brunch option.
- Avocado Toast: Elevate your avocado toast by adding these sautéed zucchini and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
How to Perfect Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
To ensure your skillet zucchini and mushrooms turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, mushrooms, and herbs enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding ingredients; this helps achieve a nice sear on the vegetables.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, cook in batches to prevent steaming instead of sautéing.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like basil or parsley to give your dish unique flavors each time you make it.

Best Side Dishes for Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to serve alongside skillet zucchini and mushrooms.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and texture, making it a nutritious option.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the skillet dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of zucchini.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs as a fresh alternative.
- Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella enhances the flavor profile of zucchini and mushrooms.
- Grilled Asparagus: Add grilled asparagus for another green vegetable that pairs beautifully with this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your vegetables properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper at each stage of cooking for depth.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
- Not using high enough heat: Cooking on low heat can result in soggy vegetables. Use medium-high heat for a nice browning effect on the zucchini and mushrooms.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Dried herbs can be convenient, but fresh herbs add vibrant flavor. Use what you have on hand for the best results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking the zucchini will make it mushy. Pay close attention to the cooking times for each ingredient to maintain their texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini and mushrooms in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the leftovers and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting butter and using olive oil as your only fat source. Additionally, skip the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.
Can I add other vegetables to Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on how long those veggies take to cook.
What is the best way to serve Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms?
This side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish. It also works well as a topping for pasta or a filling in wraps.
Can I use frozen zucchini and mushrooms instead?
While you can use frozen vegetables, they may release more water during cooking, leading to a softer texture. It’s best to thaw them first and pat dry before sautéing.
Final Thoughts
Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This delightful side dish complements various meals while allowing you plenty of room for customization based on your preferences or available ingredients. Try adding different spices or veggies next time; you’ll love how adaptable this recipe truly is!
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Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms
Skillet Zucchini and Mushrooms is a fresh and flavorful side dish that brings together the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms and tender zucchini, all enhanced by aromatic garlic and herbs. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 small zucchini (sliced)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 pound button mushrooms (cleaned)
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
- Fresh herbs (thyme or oregano)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and ½ tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender; set aside.
- Melt remaining butter in the skillet, add onions, and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in mushrooms; cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic and herbs; cook until fragrant, about 20 seconds.
- Return zucchini to the skillet; stir to combine.
- Pour in vegetable broth; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For a vegan version, use only olive oil instead of butter and omit cheese. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.