Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A light, refreshing dish featuring delicate zucchini ribbons paired with a rich tomato basil sauce made from slow-roasted tomatoes. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 ready in about 33 minutes blends medium zucchini, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 190 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 18 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 190 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Using a vegetable peeler, create thin ribbons from 2 medium zucchinis, starting from the stem end. Set aside. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper on a baking sheet.
  2. Step 2: Roast tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until blistered and softened. While tomatoes roast, mince 2 garlic cloves and finely chop 1/4 cup fresh basil.
  3. Step 3: Once tomatoes are cool, transfer to a small bowl and mash with a fork. Stir in minced garlic and chopped basil. Toss zucchini ribbons with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Top with warm tomato sauce and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 33 minutes (15 min prep + 18 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Freshly Shaved Zucchini with Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce?

Mediterranean whole30 like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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