Savory Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Medley
Elevate your side dish game with this Savory Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Medley, an easy and healthy recipe perfect for any meal. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant garlic, this dish is tailored for those mindful of their diet yet not willing to compromise on taste. The addition of balsamic vinegar brings a tangy depth, while a hint of red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick. Ideal for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this medley is not only delectable but also diabetic-friendly, making it a guilt-free choice for everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
2 (large, sliced into half-moons)
Cherry tomatoes
1 pint (sliced in half)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Garlic
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Fresh thyme
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
Olive oil
2 teaspoons (none)
Red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the zucchini and cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and then cut into half-moon shapes, about 1/4-inch thick. Halve each cherry tomato and set aside.
2
Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the fresh thyme.
3
In a large sauté pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped thyme, halved tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes become soft and fragrant.
4
Add the sliced zucchini to the pan, along with an additional pinch of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar into the pan and increase the heat to medium-high. Sauté everything together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to become tender while still maintaining a slight crunch.
6
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve the sautéed vegetables hot, garnished with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Medley?
It is a healthy, vibrant side dish featuring fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is this dish diabetic-friendly?
Yes, the recipe is tailored to be diabetic-friendly and low in calories.
How should I slice the zucchini?
You should slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and then cut it into half-moon shapes about 1/4-inch thick.
How do I prepare the cherry tomatoes?
Simply wash them and slice each cherry tomato in half.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe uses 2 minced garlic cloves.
What herb provides the fragrance in this dish?
Fresh thyme is used to provide a fragrant and earthy flavor.
How long do I sauté the tomatoes?
Sauté the tomatoes with garlic and thyme for about 5 minutes until they become soft.
When do I add the zucchini to the pan?
Add the zucchini after the tomatoes have softened and become fragrant.
Does this recipe have any spice?
Yes, it includes 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
What gives the dish its tangy depth?
A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar is added at the end to provide a tangy flavor.
How long does the zucchini take to cook?
The zucchini is cooked for about 5 minutes initially, and then another 5 minutes after adding balsamic vinegar.
What should the texture of the zucchini be?
The zucchini should be tender while still maintaining a slight crunch.
What temperature should I use for sautéing?
Start with medium-low heat and increase to medium-high after adding the balsamic vinegar.
Can I use this as a main dish?
While intended as a side dish, it can be served as a light main dish or over grains.
How should I garnish the finished medley?
Garnish the dish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
How many ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 10 ingredients, including salt and pepper.
Can I substitute the fresh thyme?
If fresh is unavailable, you can use dried thyme, though fresh is recommended for the best flavor.
Is this a quick recipe for weeknights?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
How much balsamic vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
Should I peel the zucchini?
No, the recipe uses the zucchini with the skin on for texture and nutrients.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is washing the zucchini and tomatoes and slicing them appropriately.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté the garlic on medium-low heat and stir frequently with the tomatoes.
Can I add more red pepper flakes?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best served hot, directly after sautéing.
Can I use large tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
You can, but cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and ability to hold shape.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
Based on the plant-based ingredients, this dish is naturally cholesterol-free.
Is this dish suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, its vibrant colors and crowd-pleasing flavors make it ideal for family meals.