Garden Fresh Side Dish

White dish with chopped zucchini and tomatoes topped with shredded cheese in it.

This garden fresh side dish is a simple way to celebrate the season’s best produce. Made with tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a generous handful of shredded mozzarella, it comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with just about any summer meal.

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 180kcal

Author Diane Gail

Ingredients

3 cups garden fresh zucchini cut in 1 1/2" pieces
2 cups garden fresh tomatoes cut in 1 1/2" pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large garlic cloves pressed
1 tablespoons dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Heat oil in a large skillet: Warm the olive oil over medium heat until it begins to shimmer.
Sauté the zucchini: Add the zucchini, pressed garlic, dried basil, and salt to the pan and cook, stirring often.
Cook until just tender: Let the zucchini cook through without over-softening, keeping a bit of bite.
Add the tomatoes: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped tomatoes.
Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the warm vegetables.
Cover and rest: Place a lid on the pan and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, letting the cheese melt and the flavors come together.

Notes

Use firm zucchini for best texture: Overripe zucchini can turn mushy during cooking, so choose firmer ones for the best results.
Don’t overcook the zucchini: It should be tender but still hold its shape to avoid a soggy dish.
Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes: Garden-fresh or vine-ripened tomatoes bring the most flavor and a natural sweetness that balances the dish.
Shred your own mozzarella if possible: Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect melting; freshly shredded cheese melts smoother.
Let it rest before serving: Covering the skillet allows the cheese to melt gently and the flavors to meld without further cooking.

Nutrition