This veggie-packed twist on scampi makes zucchini and summer squash the star of the plate instead of shrimp.

Charring the lemon is a simple step, but adds complex tart and smoky flavors to this easy side.

Sprinkle with 18 teaspoon salt; let stand until water leaches out, 8 to 10 minutes.

the ingredients to make the Zucchini Scampi

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Amanda Stanfield, Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines

Pat dry with paper towels.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.

Add 2 lemon halves, flesh-side down; cook, undisturbed, until charred, 3 to 4 minutes.

a photo of someone patting down the zucchini with a paper towel

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Amanda Stanfield, Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines

Remove from the pan.

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in the skillet over medium heat.

Flip and cook until fork-tender, about 2 more minutes.

a photo of a lemon being cooked in a pan

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Amanda Stanfield, Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines

Sprinkle with 18 teaspoon salt; transfer to a serving platter.

Add 5 tablespoons cubed butter; cook, stirring constantly, until well incorporated, about 2 minutes.

Spoon the sauce over the squash.

a photo of the sauce cooking in a pan

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Amanda Stanfield, Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines

Squeeze the charred lemons over the top; sprinkle with 1 tablespoon parsley.

Garnish with crushed red pepper, if desired.

  • Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.

a recipe photo of the Zucchini Scampi

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Amanda Stanfield, Prop Stylist: Tucker Vines

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