Tunisian Zucchini

Bring the vibrant flavors of North Africa to your table with this Tunisian Zucchini recipe, a savory dish bursting with bold spices and aromatic ingredients. Perfectly tender zucchini is simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce infused with cumin, coriander, paprika, and a touch of fiery harissa paste for that signature Tunisian kick. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice add a refreshing finish, elevating this easy one-pan recipe into a show-stopping side dish or a light main course. Ready in just 40 minutes, Tunisian Zucchini is not only quick and healthy but also vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a versatile dish to complement any meal. Serve it warm with crusty bread, fluffy couscous, or rice, and savor the taste of Tunisia with every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized zucchini
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon harissa paste
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 0.5 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut them into thick slices or chunks, about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2

Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.

Step 6

Add the cumin, coriander, paprika, and harissa paste to the skillet, and stir until the spices are fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 7

Stir in the diced tomatoes, water, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 8

Add the zucchini slices to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 9

Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.

Step 10

Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken slightly for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 11

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh cilantro and lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.

Step 12

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice, if needed.

Step 13

Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread or couscous.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1443.8 grams (1443.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	907

Total Fat 54.70g	70%
Saturated Fat 9.20g	46%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.60g
Cholesterol 5mg	2%
Sodium 10334mg	449%
Total Carbohydrate 95.30g	35%
Dietary Fiber 16.30g	58%
Total Sugars 72.60g
Protein 15.00g	30%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 296mg	23%
Iron 7mg	38%
Potassium 2728mg	58%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.7%

Protein: 6.4%

Carbs: 40.8%