Looking for a light and flavorful side dish? This steamed zucchini salad is fresh, healthy, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. Featuring tender zucchini, briny olives, aromatic garlic, and cooling mint, it’s the perfect complement to grilled meats or a refreshing addition to a summer lunch spread.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick: Only a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes!
- Low in calories, big on flavor: A satisfying way to eat more veggies.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Perfect for a variety of diets.
- Versatile: Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature—great for meal prep.
What Is Steamed Zucchini?
Steamed zucchini is exactly what it sounds like—zucchini slices gently cooked with steam to retain their vibrant color, nutrients, and soft texture. Popular in Mediterranean diets, it's often paired with herbs, citrus, or briny additions like olives. Unlike roasting or frying, steaming keeps the dish ultra-light, making it ideal for summer or anyone watching their calorie intake.
Pro Tips for the Best Steamed Zucchini
- Cut uniformly: Even pieces ensure the zucchini steams evenly.
- Don’t over-steam: Check at 12 minutes to avoid mushy texture.
- Let it cool completely: The flavors meld better once it’s at room temperature.
- Add-ins: Cherry tomatoes, capers, or feta cheese make great additions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Yellow Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works just as well and adds color contrast.
Do I Need a Steamer Basket?
While a steamer basket is ideal, you can improvise with a colander over boiling water and a lid.
Is This Dish Served Hot or Cold?
It’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but you can enjoy it warm too.
How Long Does Steamed Zucchini Last?
It’s best fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Can I Add Lemon Juice?
Absolutely! A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the flavors beautifully.
What Kind of Olives Should I Use?
Use your favorite—black, green, or even Kalamata olives all work well.
How to Store
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The zucchini may release a bit of water—just give it a gentle toss before serving. Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Freeze
Steamed zucchini doesn’t freeze well due to its high water content. The texture becomes mushy once thawed, so it’s recommended to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated only.
Ingredients
How to Make Steamed Zucchini
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Wash and cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
Wash and cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
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Place the pieces in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 15 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Let cool to room temperature.
Place the pieces in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 15 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Let cool to room temperature.
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In a bowl, combine the cooled zucchini, olives, garlic slices, torn mint leaves, salt, a generous drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
In a bowl, combine the cooled zucchini, olives, garlic slices, torn mint leaves, salt, a generous drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
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Transfer to a serving platter, optionally garnish with more mint or oregano, and enjoy!
Transfer to a serving platter, optionally garnish with more mint or oregano, and enjoy!
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