Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A colorful, low-carb stir-fry featuring zucchini noodles and sweet cherry tomatoes, simmered in garlic-infused oil to combat inflammation and support digestion. This italian-inspired whole30 (anti-inflammatory) ready in about 22 minutes pairs medium Zucchini, Cherry tomatoes, Garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 185 calories and feeds 2, 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.

★ 3.4 (8 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 7 min Serves 2 Italian cuisine 185 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spiralize the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler, then toss with 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and 1/2 tsp sea salt in a large bowl.
  2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the zucchini noodles, and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until tender-crisp and slightly caramelized at the edges.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices, fragrant with garlic.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat, stir in 1 tbsp fresh basil, and serve immediately while still warm.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (15 min prep + 7 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes?

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 medium zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes?

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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Garlic Tomatoes?

Italian 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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