Sunday, May 29, 2011

Cream Cheesy Cubed Zucchini with Lemon and Oregano

Those of you expecting some kind of char-grilled hunk o' meat, fat-glistening-in-the-sun-type video for Memorial Day will probably be disappointed to see this humble zucchini dish. I really can't blame you. It is zucchini for heaven's sake.

I've been busy traveling on some secret business trips recently, so while I'd normally have a hard time feigning such excitement over squash, considering how much time I've had, I'm actually quite thrilled with how this came out.

I didn't start out trying to make a creamy zucchini recipe, but when I glanced in the fridge and saw the last crumbled remains of fresh cream cheese, I knew those green cubes sizzling away in the skillet were about to get enriched.

Like I said in the video, this would make a pretty nice side dish for all that grilled meat you are going to tong this summer, or as an impressive base for grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. Also, to get extra fancy, use crème fraiche (preferably homemade) instead of the cream cheese. Enjoy!

I want to wish you all a delicious and safe Memorial Day. Hopefully you'll join me in taking a few moments to remember all those who gave their lives protecting our freedom and way of life.


Ingredients:
3 or 4 cups cubed zucchini
2 tablespoon olive oil
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
cayenne to taste
2 tablespoon cream cheese
1 or 2 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano

View the complete recipe

19 comments:

briack said...

needs more yetis...

raquel.erecipe said...

zuchinni is used to cure asthma as it contains Vitamin c.
But If I will try this recipe I will make it more creamy by putting more cream cheese =)

Monica said...

I would slice them on mandolin and steam in a zip lock steamer bag and add thee cc at the end along with lemon, oregano and pepper flakes.

Paul D said...

Always looking for clever ways to use the seasons zucchini - thanks again

Joffre The Giant said...

Have to admit I'm hesitant about the dairy, but I'll have to give it a try. You've not failed yet! :-)

mug shot said...

Wouldn't parmesan be a nice touch?

Bobolink said...

What would be your thoughts on adding an equal amount of goat cheese as cream cheese to this recipe?

Anonymous said...

Mmm..shrimp..I love zuchini too (the way my mom makes it)(: Thanks.

Anonymous said...

Wow that would be nice tossed with some angel hair pasta. On another note, SHOW US HOW TO MAKE BEEF JERKY! I have been experimenting with several recipes (all of which, strangely enough, call for obnoxious amounts of soy sauce) but I am still having trouble making a decent batch. Your expertise would be appreciated.

The Food Lady said...

I made this recipe today, it was delicious!

Anonymous said...

Awesome! I love these simple homerun recipes...
-Jesse from Detroit

Anonymous said...

I think your blog is magic !

Anonymous said...

I think your blog is magic, too: you really know what you're talking about, no fancy "magic" procedures, just a bulk of solid food science with a half teaspoon of inspiration, love and humour! And - last but not least - your english is really clear, so even an italian like me rarely loses a word of yours...
Thank you so much, Chef John!

Pier

Anonymous said...

I tried it tonight, it was awesome!!! Thanks Chef John :)

Anonymous said...

YUM! I made these last night to go with zucchini stuffed chicken. It was perfect!!

KristaB said...

Great idea! I have been making zucchini the same way for several years, and this was a great way to mix it up. Thanks Chef John!!!

kaffee11 said...

The Cream Cheesy Cubed Zucchini with Lemon and Oregano recipe was a hit! A great way to use up some zucchini! You gotta try this one!

Unknown said...

I think I,m going to add sliced almonds with the squash too.

Kristi said...

This was crazy great!!! Used fresh rosemary instead of oregano and my family devoured every last bit! Thank you for inspiring us with so many delicious flavors! <3