Sautéed Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Medley with Garlic

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-04 · Updated 2026-05-04

A colorful side dish of tender zucchini and burst cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic and herbs, perfect for any Mediterranean meal. This mediterranean-inspired mediterranean (vegetarian, mediterranean) ready in about 17 minutes pairs halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, thinly sliced garlic cloves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 2 medium (about 400g), sliced into 1/4-inch thick half moons zucchini
• 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves, thinly sliced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 3 thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Step 2: Add 2 medium sliced zucchinis (about 400g) to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until zucchini starts to soften and edges turn golden.
3. Step 3: Stir in 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
4. Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm as a vibrant vegetable side dish.