Make Ahead

Summer Squash Dip (Zucchini Caviar)

July 30, 2021
5
1 Ratings
Photo by Anna Vorobiova
  • Prep time 10 minutes
  • Cook time 40 minutes
  • Serves 6
Author Notes

Zucchini caviar - this is the name this dish has in Ukraine. For this region, zucchini or squash caviar is a traditional dish. It can be prepared to be eaten immediately or prepared for long-term storage (in this case, vinegar is added to the recipe).

The dish contains a lot of fiber and vitamins, as it consists entirely of vegetables. It can be used as a sauce, pasta (which is usually spread on bread), and even as a soup.

The recipe varies depending on your preference, for example, my family loves spicy food, so we add hot peppers, but this ingredient can be skipped if you are not a fan of spicy foods.

Can be cooked in a saucepan on the stovetop or in your Instant Pot.

So, if you are ready to get acquainted with Ukrainian cuisine, let's start cooking! —Anna Vorobiova

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Ingredients
  • 3 summer squash or zucchini, skin peeled
  • 1 large carrot, peeled
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 hot pepper (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste or 1 can of skinless canned tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons paprika powder
  • 1 cup of water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for serving (optional)
  • Dill, finely chopped (optional)
Directions
  1. Cook bell peppers in the oven or on the grill to easily peel.
  2. Cut all vegetables into large pieces, put them in a saucepan, add tomato paste (or canned tomatoes). Pour 1 cup of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered over low heat for 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the lid, add paprika powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes or until excess moisture evaporates (you should have no more than 1/3 of the liquid left).
  4. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Eat hot with olive oil and dill or refrigerate until cool and serve as a sauce, dip, or cold soup.

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