Zucchini with Mint and Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A Zesty and Easy Summer Side
Do you have zucchini growing in your backyard or have you found them on sale at the grocery store? Grab a few medium sized zucchini, a bunch of fresh mint and get cooking to make a traditional dish from Naples that’s a perfect side dish for any summer meal. Ingredients:2 medium zucchiniSaltExtra virgin olive oil for sauteing Marinade:Small bunch of fresh mint¼ cup White balsamic vinegar1 clove of garlic, finely chopped4 Tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Cut the top and bottom off of the zucchini, then slice them into rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Place the rounds onto a clean dishcloth and sprinkle salt over them so excess water can be removed. Set aside for about ½ hour then rinse off the salt and dry them off. Chop the mint and add to a bowl with finely chopped garlic, white balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Cover the bottom of a frying pan with oil over medium heat. Add zucchini rounds so they’re in a single layer in the pan. Depending on the size of the pan, you may need to saute a second batch. Flip the rounds after 2 minutes or until they are golden brown on each side. Remove from the pan and place on a plate with paper towels to absorb extra oil. In a serving bowl, add half the marinade to the bottom. Add the zucchini rounds while still warm and then add the remaining marinade over the top. Let the dish rest a bit so the flavors can combine. Add a fresh sprig of mint then serve!