Zucchini and cherry tomatoes are the perfect combination for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish. This Sautéed Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Soy Sauce recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. The dish is light yet satisfying, with a blend of fresh vegetables seasoned with Provençal herbs, garlic, and soy sauce. The optional addition of Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, savory touch that elevates the overall flavor profile. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it an ideal side dish, pasta topping, or even a light main course for vegetarians.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Cherry tomatoes: 10-12, halved
• Zucchini: 1 medium, sliced into thin rounds
• Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
• Blend of Provençal herbs: 1 tsp (a mix of thyme, rosemary, basil, and oregano)
• Parmesan cheese: Optional, grated for garnish

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil: A few leaves, chopped, for added freshness
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat

Steps to Make Sautéed Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Soy Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and chop the vegetables: Rinse the zucchini and cherry tomatoes under cold water. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds, and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Prepare your ingredients for cooking: Lay out the vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and Provençal herbs, so everything is ready for the quick sauté process.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Sauté the Garlic

1. Heat olive oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be warm, but not too hot, to avoid burning the garlic.
2. Add garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Be careful not to brown or burn the garlic as it will become bitter.

Step 3: Add the Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes

1. Add zucchini slices: Place the sliced zucchini into the pan and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the zucchini to soften slightly while still retaining a bit of crunch.
2. Toss in cherry tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Stir gently to coat the tomatoes and zucchini with the olive oil and garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the tomatoes begin to soften and release some of their juices, but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Season with Soy Sauce and Provençal Herbs

1. Add soy sauce: Pour 3 tablespoons of soy sauce over the vegetables. The soy sauce not only seasons the dish but also adds a deep umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the mildness of the zucchini.
2. Sprinkle Provençal herbs: Add 1 teaspoon of the Provençal herb blend, ensuring an even distribution over the vegetables. These herbs infuse the dish with a subtle, aromatic Mediterranean flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.
3. Cook for another 2 minutes: Allow the vegetables to continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, letting the soy sauce reduce slightly and coat the zucchini and tomatoes.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan (Optional)

1. Grate Parmesan cheese: If desired, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the vegetables just before serving. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a rich, savory element to the dish.
2. Garnish and serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximately)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 620 mg (from the soy sauce)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant. This recipe is highly versatile, and you can experiment with different veggies based on your preferences or what’s in season.

2. What if I don’t have Provençal herbs?

If you don’t have a blend of Provençal herbs, you can make your own by combining dried thyme, rosemary, basil, oregano, and marjoram. Alternatively, Italian seasoning or even just dried thyme or oregano will work as a substitute.

3. Is there a vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can either skip the cheese entirely or use a vegan Parmesan substitute made from nutritional yeast and ground nuts. Nutritional yeast will provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy.

5. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt levels in check.

Tips for Making the Perfect Sautéed Zucchini and Tomatoes

1. Don’t overcook the zucchini: Zucchini has a high water content and can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains tender but still slightly firm.
2. Use ripe cherry tomatoes: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes is key in balancing the savory notes of the soy sauce and garlic. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
3. Try different herbs: While Provençal herbs are a fantastic flavor combination, feel free to experiment with fresh or dried thyme, oregano, or basil to add your unique twist to the dish.
4. Add some crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts on top before serving.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the zucchini may release more water as it sits, so the texture may change slightly.
• Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the high water content of zucchini, which can make the vegetables mushy once thawed.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the vegetables too soft.

Conclusion

This Sautéed Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Soy Sauce is an easy, flavorful dish that takes only a few minutes to prepare. Whether served as a side, paired with pasta, or eaten on its own, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of fresh vegetables, enhanced by the umami of soy sauce and the aromatic touch of Provençal herbs. It’s a dish that can be customized with additional ingredients or herbs to suit your taste. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Enjoy this delightful, healthy, and satisfying meal with family or friends!