Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy with this delightful Tuscan Zucchini with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Mint! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and healthy option for any meal. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful medley of fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, all elevated by the refreshing touch of mint. Whether you're looking for a light side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and unlock the secrets to a truly scrumptious Italian delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Zucchini (2 medium, sliced)
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Fresh mint (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all fresh ingredients. Slice zucchini into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely mince the garlic cloves. Chop fresh mint leaves into small pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is wide enough to allow zucchini to cook in a single layer for even browning.
- Add minced garlic to the heated olive oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Add sliced zucchini to the pan, spreading them evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini becomes tender and develops light golden edges.
- Introduce halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, gently stirring to combine with zucchini. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning gradually and taste as you go.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh mint over the dish. Gently toss to distribute mint evenly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference. Opt for fresh, organic zucchini and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Slice Uniformly: When slicing the zucchini, aim for uniform thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Watch the Garlic: Sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning it, which can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
- Cook in Batches: If your skillet is small, consider cooking the zucchini in batches to prevent overcrowding. This allows for better browning and flavor development.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty dish!
- Fresh Mint Matters: Use fresh mint for a burst of flavor. Dried mint won’t provide the same aromatic freshness, so make sure to chop it just before adding it to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving for added richness, and consider pairing with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
