Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil

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

Light and fresh zucchini noodles tossed with cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil make a satisfying Whole30 vegetable side or main. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes pairs cherry tomatoes, halved, fresh basil leaves, torn, garlic cloves, minced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 110 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a Whole30 week and pairs well with roasted sweet potato or a simple olive-oil salad. 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: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 110 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 cups spiralized zucchini noodles, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook, tossing gently, for 3-4 minutes until noodles are just tender but not mushy.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves and 1 tsp lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep cherry tomatoes, halved from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil?

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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil 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.

Is Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomato and Basil vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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