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Buy Now →Spanish cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and simple, fresh ingredients, bringing together the best of seasonal produce with traditional cooking techniques. Among the myriad of delightful tapas dishes, the Spanish Garlic Zucchini, or Calabacín al Ajillo, stands out for its simplicity and robust flavors. This dish features tender slices of zucchini, fried to perfection and dressed in a fragrant garlic and parsley mixture, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish that brings a touch of Spanish flair to any meal.
Preparation and Cooking Overview
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes
Servings: 4 as a side or tapas
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (about 15 grams)
Cooking Instructions:
- Prep the Zucchini: Rinse the zucchinis under cold running water and pat them dry. Cut into thick slices, about half an inch thick, and season both sides with sea salt. Place the slices in a colander in a single layer to drain for 30 minutes, which helps remove excess moisture.
- Garlic and Parsley Mixture: While the zucchini rests, prepare the flavor base. Peel and roughly chop the garlic, then combine it with chopped fresh parsley in a mortar. Add a pinch of sea salt and pound the mixture until well combined, about 30-45 seconds.
- Cook the Zucchini: Pat the zucchini dry again, season with black pepper, and heat a frying pan with olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the zucchini slices in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2.5 minutes per side, until golden brown and tender.
- Prepare the Dressing: Reduce the heat to low-medium, add a little more olive oil, and sauté the garlic and parsley mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.
- Serve: Remove from heat and spoon the garlic-parsley oil over the fried zucchini slices, ensuring even coating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Spanish Garlic Zucchini blends simplicity with deliciousness, embodying the spirit of Spanish culinary traditions. It’s a versatile dish that can enhance a variety of meals, offering a light yet flavorful option that’s both easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying. Its charm lies in the harmonious blend of zucchini with the intense flavors of garlic and parsley, providing a fresh and aromatic experience.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure Crispiness: To avoid soggy zucchini, make sure to let them sit salted in a colander as directed. This draws out moisture, which is key for achieving a nice, crispy fry.
- Uniform Slices: Cut the zucchini into even slices to ensure they cook uniformly. Uneven slices may lead to some pieces being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor. The freshness of these ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall taste of the dish.
- Moderate Heat: Keep the garlic on low-medium heat to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and overpower the delicate flavor of the zucchini.
Serving Suggestions:
- Complementing Dishes: Serve as part of a tapas selection with other Spanish favorites like patatas bravas, chorizo in red wine, and gambas al ajillo.
- As a Side: Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a light, healthy meal.
- Enhance Flavor: Accompany with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-parsley oil left on the plate.
Nutritional Benefits:
Zucchini is low in calories but high in essential nutrients like potassium, manganese, and antioxidants. It contributes to hydration and may aid in digestion due to its high water content and fiber. Garlic not only adds flavor but also offers health benefits, including improved heart health and immune support.
Dietary Information:
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. It can also be made vegan by substituting the olive oil with another plant-based oil if desired.
Conclusion
Spanish Garlic Zucchini (Calabacín al Ajillo) is more than just a dish; it’s a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for those who appreciate recipes that are both easy to prepare and health-conscious. This dish not only serves up Mediterranean charm on a plate but also brings nutritional benefits, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal. Give it a try, and let the flavors of Spain transform your dining experience.