Curried Zucchini

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Mediterranean

A vibrant, flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender zucchini simmered in a fragrant turmeric and cumin spiced tomato sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or healthy lunches.

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Ingredients

  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 small zucchini, sliced
  • 2 large chopped tomatoes or 1 (16 oz.) can whole or diced tomatoes

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, saute garlic and onion in olive oil.
  2. Add turmeric, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes; cook briefly to release flavors.
  3. Stir in sliced zucchini; cook until tender.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes or canned tomatoes; simmer until heated through.
  5. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For added depth, consider using fresh ginger alongside the garlic. You can swap out zucchini for yellow squash or even eggplant if desired. Adjust the level of turmeric and cumin according to your taste preference, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for variety. This dish also works well as a base for a vegan protein like chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Curried Zucchini hot, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. It pairs beautifully with fragrant rice or quinoa, making it a great side dish for Mediterranean recipes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad like Tabooli or a protein-rich dish like County Bean Salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. The flavors may deepen after a day, making it even more delicious.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Curried Zucchini contains roughly 360 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

360 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 38.6g 49% DV
Carbs 4.3g 2% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 901.7mg 39% DV
Potassium 84.6mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 5.8mg 6% DV
Calcium 15.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Curried Zucchini a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the simmering stage and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick.

What can I serve with Curried Zucchini?

Curried Zucchini is versatile and goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside fluffy couscous, warm naan, or a light yogurt sauce. It also complements other dishes like Minted Cauliflower for a delightful meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Curried Zucchini is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and the flavors improve over time. Divide it into individual portions and pair with your choice of grains or salad for an easy lunch option throughout the week.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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