Zucchini spread

Zucchini spread: a savory delicacy, perfect for winter

If you are looking for an easy-to-make, healthy, and delicious recipe, zucchini spread is the ideal choice. This traditional dish has won the hearts of many due to its rich flavor and fine texture, making it an excellent choice for preserving the flavors of summer during the cold season. Additionally, it is perfect as an appetizer, on toasted bread, or as a side dish. Let’s discover together how to prepare this zucchini spread step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10 (approximately 4.3 kg of spread)

Necessary ingredients:
- 4.3 kg of peeled and seeded zucchini
- 1.5 kg of onions
- 2 carrots
- 1.5 kg of red bell peppers
- 1.5 kg of tomatoes
- 300 ml of oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- Coarse salt (to taste)
- A few black peppercorns
- 3 bay leaves

Step 1: Preparing the zucchini
Start by peeling and seeding the zucchini. Use a large grater to grate them, then mix them with a handful of coarse salt. This step will not only help draw out the water from the zucchini but also enhance their flavor. Set them aside for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roasting the peppers
During this time, you can roast the peppers. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and place the peppers on a baking tray. Roast them for 30-40 minutes or until the skin turns brown and puffs up. Once done, place them in a pot, add coarse salt, and cover with a lid to let them steam for 10 minutes. This will make peeling them easier.

Step 3: Preparing the onions and carrots
Peel the onions, wash them, and chop them finely using a food processor. In a large pot, add the oil and sauté the onions over medium heat. If desired, you can add a little water to prevent burning. After about 5 minutes, add the peeled and grated carrots. Sauté everything together for 10-15 minutes until the onions become translucent and the carrots soften.

Step 4: Adding the zucchini
Once the onions and carrots are ready, add the drained zucchini to the pot. Mix the ingredients well and let them cook together for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Preparing the tomatoes
Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes and remove their stems. Use the food processor again to turn them into a puree. Add the tomato puree to the pot, mixing well. Let the spread simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to rise to the surface, about 30-40 minutes.

Step 6: Adding the peppers and spices
Peel the roasted peppers and remove the seeds, then chop them finely. Add them to the pot along with the black pepper and bay leaves. Adjust the salt to taste and let the spread simmer for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 7: Preserving the spread
Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. Fill the jars with hot spread (preferably 400 g each) and seal them well. Place the jars in a tray with hot water and leave them in the oven for 30 minutes. This step will ensure better preservation of the dish. After that, turn off the oven and let the jars cool inside.

Step 8: Storage
Once the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The zucchini spread can be kept for several months, and its flavor will be a real delight during winter.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enrich the flavor of the spread, you can add a few finely chopped olives or capers to the mix.
- You can experiment with different types of oil, such as olive oil, for a more intense taste.
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and of high quality for an ideal result.
- A delicious variation is to add some herbs, such as basil or oregano, during preparation.

Nutritional values per 100 g of zucchini spread:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fiber: 2 g

This zucchini spread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while carrots add a boost of vitamin A. Additionally, it is a vegetarian dish and low in calories, perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Answer: While it is possible, the taste and texture will not be as good as fresh zucchini. We recommend using fresh zucchini for optimal flavor.

2. How can I preserve the spread for longer?
Answer: It is important to seal the jars well and keep them in a cool, dark place. Also, make sure the spread is hot when you put it in the jars.

3. What can I serve zucchini spread with?
Answer: It is delicious on toasted bread, alongside feta cheese, or as a side dish with meat dishes. It also pairs very well with a fresh vegetable salad.

In conclusion, zucchini spread is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for adding a touch of flavor to your meals. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combination that suits you best. Savor its aroma and enjoy every serving of spread, bringing a piece of your summer into every winter!