Zucchini with Cilantro and Cream

A Taste of Corsica: Simple Zucchini with Cilantro and Cream

Life in our Corsican convent has been an adventure, a whirlwind of restoration projects, olive harvests, and the constant discovery of new flavors. Eleven years ago, my husband Ivan and I traded the vibrant chaos of Madagascar for the sun-drenched hills of Corsica, a move driven by a shared impulse, a leap of faith that led us to this ancient olive grove and its abandoned convent. Now, our lives revolve around the rhythm of the seasons, the scent of olive oil freshly pressed, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together.

My background is Lyonnaise, but the Corsican spirit has infused itself into my cooking, transforming my approach to food. While I appreciate the elegance of elaborate dishes, my true passion lies in simple, fresh ingredients brought together in surprising and delicious ways. This zucchini with cilantro and cream is a perfect example – a testament to the fact that extraordinary flavors don't always require extraordinary effort.

This dish began as a simple side, a way to utilize the abundance of summer zucchini from our garden. The creamy texture of the sauce, the bright, fresh cilantro, and the gentle garlic perfectly complement the delicate flavor of the zucchini. It's a dish that feels both rustic and refined, a reflection of the balance we strive for in our lives here in Corsica.

But its versatility extends beyond the simple side dish. It's equally delightful spooned over pan-seared fish, lending a vibrant, herbaceous note to the rich, flaky flesh. The creaminess of the sauce beautifully counterpoints the flaky texture, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and guests.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with the herbs. A sprinkle of fresh oregano or basil would add another layer of complexity. If you prefer a bolder flavor, a touch of lemon zest could brighten the sauce. The possibilities are endless. This is not just a recipe; it is an invitation to explore and create, to find your own Corsican culinary inspiration, even if your kitchen isn't nestled in a thousand-year-old olive grove.

Cooking, for me, is more than just preparing a meal; it's about sharing a piece of our lives, a taste of our Corsica. It's about creating moments of connection, sharing stories over plates of simple, delicious food, and offering a warm welcome to those who share our table. This zucchini dish is a perfect embodiment of that philosophy. It is a symbol of simplicity, of the beauty found in everyday moments, and of the boundless possibilities hidden within a handful of fresh ingredients.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity of the recipe, and allow the flavors of Corsica to transport you to our humble convent, where the aroma of freshly pressed olive oil and the scent of herbs fill the air. And remember, the most exquisite flavors often come from the simplest preparations. Enjoy the taste of Corsica, served with love, from our kitchen to yours.

Beyond the Recipe:

While the recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, the true magic lies in the quality of the ingredients themselves. Fresh, locally sourced zucchini and cilantro will make a world of difference. If possible, try to find organically grown produce to enhance the natural flavors. And don't be afraid to adjust the amount of cilantro to your preference. Some people might prefer a more pronounced cilantro flavor, while others might want a subtler touch.

The same is true with the cream. You can substitute the whipping cream with half-and-half or even a touch of crème fraîche for a richer, tangier sauce. Experiment and find what works best for your palate. Ultimately, cooking should be a joyful exploration of flavors and textures, a celebration of the bounty of nature.

And finally, don't limit yourself to serving this dish as a simple side or a sauce for fish. It could also be a delightful addition to pasta dishes, or even used as a spread on crostini. Let your imagination run wild. There are many ways to transform this simple, versatile recipe into a culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat.
• Add garlic and sauté 10 seconds.
• Add zucchini and 2 tablespoons cilantro; sauté until zucchini is crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
• Add cream and simmer until juices thicken slightly, about 1 minute.
• Season with salt and pepper; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons cilantro.