Zucchini Spread
Gluten Free, Low Carbs, Sugar Free, Dairy Free, Yeast Free, Egg Free, Vegan, Nut Free
Ingredients:
Name | Units | TIP | |
---|---|---|---|
Zucchini medium, grated | 3 | ||
Carrot medium, grated | 1 | ||
Onion, finely chopped | 1 | ||
Garlic | 3 cloves | ||
Diced Tomatoes | 2 cans | ||
Salt and Ground Black Pepper, to taste | 1 tsp | ||
Sugar, optional | 1 tsp | ||
Vegetable Oil, for cooking | 3 tablespoons |
Optional Ingredients:
1 Bell Pepper, finely chopped | |
1 Celery stalk, chopped | |
1 tsp Sweet Paprika | |
1 tsp dried Oregano (or any herbs of your choice) | |
Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish |
Steps:
Prepare all vegetables. Chop finely the Onion and Garlic, if using Celery and Bell Pepper too. Grate the Zucchini and Carrot.
Heat Vegetable Oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Onion and Garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Carrot, and after 5 minutes add the Bell Pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
Next, pour in the Crushed Tomatoes and Celery (if using). Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are fully integrated and the spread has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally.
Add grated Zucchini, season with Salt, Black Pepper, dried Oregano, and other condiments (if using). Stir to combine and simmer for another 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Serve as a spread on toast, as a dip with crackers or vegetables, or as a topping for sandwiches.
Comments:
Zucchini Spread
Why You’ll Like This Zucchini Spread
Fresh and Flavorful:
- Tasty Combination: The spread combines the freshness of zucchini and other vegetables with the rich, tangy flavor of tomatoes. This results in a well-balanced taste that's both satisfying and refreshing.
- Herb and Spice Infusion: The addition of herbs like oregano and spices like cumin enhances the flavor profile, giving the spread a Mediterranean twist.
Versatile and Healthy:
- Nutrient-Rich: Zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This spread is a nutritious option for a variety of diets.
- Multiple Uses: It can be used as a spread on toast, a dip for veggies or crackers, or a topping for sandwiches and wraps. Its versatility makes it a great addition to many meals.
Easy to Make:
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses readily available ingredients and is straightforward to prepare. Even if you're not a seasoned cook, you can whip up this spread with ease.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spices and herbs to match your taste preferences, making it easy to cater to different palates.
Flavor Profile:
- Tomato Base: The fresh tomatoes give the spread a rich, tangy base that adds a depth of flavor. The blending process makes the tomatoes smooth and integrates their sweetness and acidity into the spread.
- Savory Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add a mild sweetness and savory depth. They contribute to a balanced flavor without overwhelming the spread.
- Herbs and Spices: The oregano provides a Mediterranean herbal note, while cumin adds a hint of earthiness. The seasoning creates a well-rounded flavor that’s both comforting and intriguing.
Overall Taste Experience:
- The spread is vibrant and flavorful, with a creamy texture that complements the savory and slightly sweet notes of the vegetables and tomatoes. It’s well-seasoned, with a harmonious blend of herbs and spices that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Taste Description
In summary, this zucchini spread is a delightful blend of fresh, healthy ingredients that come together to create a tasty, versatile, and easy-to-make addition to your meals. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for a variety of dishes.
Zucchini Spread additional information:
The Vegetable Zucchini Spread pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
1. Toasts and Bread
- Crusty Baguette or Artisan Bread: Spread it on slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread for a tasty appetizer or snack.
- Whole Wheat Toast: Enjoy it as a nutritious spread on whole wheat toast for a wholesome breakfast or light lunch.
2. Crackers and Chips
- Whole Grain Crackers: Serve the spread with whole grain or multigrain crackers for a healthy snack or party appetizer.
- Pita Chips: Pair it with crispy pita chips for a satisfying and crunchy treat.
3. Vegetables
- Raw Veggies: Use it as a dip for raw vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes.
- Veggie Platter: Add it to a veggie platter with an assortment of fresh, crisp vegetables.
4. Sandwiches and Wraps
- Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches in place of mayonnaise or mustard for added flavor and nutrition.
- Wraps and Rolls: Use it as a filling for wraps or rolled sandwiches along with your favorite veggies and protein.
5. Salads
- Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a little water or olive oil to use as a flavorful dressing for salads.
- Salad Topping: Top salads with a dollop of the spread for added flavor and texture.
6. Pasta and Grain Bowls
- Pasta: Mix it into cooked pasta for a quick and tasty pasta dish. It can serve as a sauce or a topping.
- Grain Bowls: Add it to grain bowls featuring quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a hearty, veggie-packed meal.
7. Pizza and Flatbreads
- Pizza Base: Use it as a base sauce for pizza or flatbreads. Top with cheese and other favorite toppings before baking.
- Flatbreads: Spread it on flatbreads or naan for a flavorful and easy-to-make pizza alternative.
8. Eggs
- Scrambled Eggs: Mix it into scrambled eggs or omelets for a nutritious boost.
- Poached or Fried Eggs: Serve a spoonful of the spread alongside poached or fried eggs for a complete breakfast.
9. Cheese
- Cheese Platter: Pair it with a variety of cheeses on a cheese platter for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
10. Fish and Meat
- Grilled Fish: Serve it as a topping or side with grilled fish for a fresh and flavorful complement.
- Chicken or Turkey: Use it as a spread on chicken or turkey sandwiches or as a side with grilled or roasted meats.
By incorporating the Vegetable Zucchini Spread into these various dishes and pairings, you can enjoy its rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture in a multitude of delicious ways.