Zucchini Ankara

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with Zucchini Ankara, a simple yet aromatic dish that combines tender zucchini with a rich, spiced tomato sauce. This Turkish-inspired recipe features the warm earthiness of cumin and paprika, a hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes, and the freshness of chopped parsley, making it a perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a one-pan cooking method, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. Serve it as a hearty vegetarian main alongside crusty bread, rice, or bulgur, or enjoy it as a flavorful side dish. Bursting with fresh ingredients and warming spices, Zucchini Ankara is a healthy, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon (optional) crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 14-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 0.5 cup water
• 2 tablespoons, chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoon (or to taste) black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

Step 2

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 5

Add the sliced zucchini to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini starts to soften and becomes lightly golden in spots.

Step 6

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Mix well to combine.

Step 7

Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.

Step 8

Simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 9

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 10

Serve warm as a main dish with crusty bread, rice, or bulgur, or as a flavorful side dish to complement your meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1498 grams (1498.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	916

Total Fat 57.50g	74%
Saturated Fat 10.00g	50%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.00g
Cholesterol 8mg	3%
Sodium 10362mg	451%
Total Carbohydrate 90.90g	33%
Dietary Fiber 17.90g	64%
Total Sugars 73.20g
Protein 14.70g	29%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 328mg	25%
Iron 9mg	47%
Potassium 3008mg	64%

*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: 55.1%

Protein: 6.3%

Carbs: 38.7%