Orange Blossom Zucchini Recipe
This delightful Orange Blossom Zucchini recipe is perfect for those abundant zucchini days, transforming humble vegetables into a stunning side dish. With a harmonious blend of flavors—tender zucchini accented by the sweet, citrusy notes of orange marmalade and a hint of Cointreau liqueur—this dish not only looks beautiful with its pale green and soft orange hues but also tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for a quick, elegant addition to any meal, it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 2 medium |
| Zucchini (additional) | 2 medium |
| Butter | ¼ cup |
| Cointreau liqueur | 1 tablespoon |
| Orange marmalade | To taste (approximately 1/4 cup recommended) |
| Fresh ground pepper | To taste (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 59.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 10.2 mg |
| Sodium | 39.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 3.9 g |
| Protein | 1.4 g |
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Zucchini: Start by washing and julienne the zucchini into 2-inch sticks, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. This method not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also allows for a quicker cooking time.
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Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the julienned zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 3 minutes, stirring gently until the zucchini is tender yet still crisp. The key is to maintain some texture, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
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Add Cointreau and Marmalade: Once the zucchini has reached the desired tenderness, carefully pour in the Cointreau liqueur and add the orange marmalade. Stir well to ensure the zucchini is evenly coated with the sweet, tangy mixture. Allow the ingredients to heat through for about 2 minutes, ensuring the marmalade melts and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Season and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the zucchini lightly with fresh ground pepper to add an aromatic kick. Serve warm, and enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious flavors that this Orange Blossom Zucchini dish offers. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a stunning vegetarian side.
This recipe serves 6, making it perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. The combination of sweet orange and savory zucchini is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy the delightful freshness and unique flavor profile of this exquisite dish that showcases the versatility of zucchini in a new light!
