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Zucchini Bolognese

This zucchini bolognese transforms garden-fresh zucchinis into a hearty, meatless sauce by gently cooking grated zucchini with crushed tomatoes, onions, and garlic until tender and flavorful. The dish boasts a thick, rustic texture with a vibrant, summery aroma, perfect for serving over pasta or grains. It’s a simple, forgiving recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and moisture of zucchini.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large zucchini no need to peel
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes preferably good quality
  • 1 yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • a handful fresh basil or oregano chopped

Equipment

  • Wide skillet or sauté pan
  • Grater
  • Wooden spoon
  • Can opener

Method
 

  1. Grate the zucchinis into a large bowl, then gently squeeze out excess moisture with your hands or a clean towel.
  2. Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add the grated zucchini to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it shrinks and begins to turn lightly golden, about 8 minutes. This develops a sweet aroma and slightly crispy edges.
  4. Push the zucchini to one side of the pan, then add chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. The onion should become translucent and smell sweet.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Mix the zucchini, onion, and garlic together, then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
  7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop a rich aroma.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then stir in chopped fresh herbs for brightness.
  9. Once the sauce has thickened to coat the back of a spoon and the zucchini is tender, remove from heat.
  10. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, grains, or enjoy as a hearty vegetable main. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.