Zucchini dish

Zucchini dish with onions and tomatoes: a simple and healthy delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Today, I present you a delicious and comforting recipe for zucchini dish with onions and tomatoes, a dish that, through its simplicity and flavor, reminds us of happy family meals. This dish is perfect for warm summer days when fresh vegetables are at hand, but you can enjoy it anytime, thanks to the versatility of its ingredients.

A brief history

Zucchini dishes can be found in many culinary cultures, being a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into extraordinary dishes. Zucchini, by nature, are highly valued for their delicate texture and subtle flavor, which blend perfectly with the aromas of onion and tomato. Additionally, they are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice in any diet.

Ingredients

- 6 medium zucchinis
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 100 ml of oil for frying
- 3 large onions (preferably yellow or white)
- 1 can of tomatoes in their own juice (about 400g)
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 bunches of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis well under a stream of cold water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Cut them into small cubes, keeping the skin (most of the vitamins are in the skin, so don’t throw it away).

2. Dredging in flour: In a bowl, place the 3 tablespoons of flour. Then, take a portion of the zucchini cubes and coat them in flour, ensuring they are evenly covered. This step will help achieve a crispy crust.

3. Frying the zucchinis: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the floured zucchinis, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil and keep them warm.

4. Preparing the sauce: In the remaining oil, strain the flour residues, then add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to turn golden. This step is crucial, as caramelized onion will add a rich flavor to the dish.

5. Adding the tomatoes and garlic: When the onion is ready, add the chopped tomatoes and minced garlic. Mix well and let simmer for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

6. Boiling the zucchinis: Then, add the fried zucchinis to the pan and pour enough water to completely cover them. Cover the pan with a lid and let simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. Here, the zucchinis will absorb the flavors of the sauce, becoming delicious.

7. Finishing the dish: When the cooking time is up, season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the freshly chopped dill just before turning off the heat. The dill will bring a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

Serving

This zucchini dish is delicious served warm, garnished with slices of fresh tomatoes and a few sprigs of green dill. You can accompany the dish with a serving of polenta or a slice of fresh bread, which will make every bite a perfect experience. Additionally, this dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of yogurt or sour cream for an extra creaminess.

Variations and suggestions

To customize the recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enhance the colors and flavors. You can also try replacing the zucchinis with eggplants or pumpkin, thus obtaining a different and equally delicious version. Another interesting idea is to add a pinch of chili pepper for an extra kick.

Nutritional information

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy! Zucchinis are low in calories and high in fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. They also contain vitamins A and C, essential for a strong immune system. A serving of this dish has about 150-200 calories, depending on the oil used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace zucchinis with other vegetables? Absolutely! You can use eggplants, carrots, or even cauliflower.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? Add chili powder or freshly chopped hot pepper.
- How much salt should I add? Start with half a teaspoon, then adjust to taste.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to try this delicious zucchini dish. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and savor the final result! Enjoy your meal!