Ignite your taste buds with the bold and fiery flavors of Pili Pili Zucchini Oww Hot, a vibrant vegetarian dish inspired by the heat of African bird's eye chili. This quick and easy recipe combines tender zucchini rounds with aromatic garlic, red onions, and a kick of smoked paprika, all infused in a rich, spiced olive oil base. A fresh squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish, while a sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a pop of freshness. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect as a smoky-sweet and spicy side or a satisfying standalone option for spice lovers. Whether you're looking to elevate your veggie game or add a flavorful punch to your meal, this zucchini recipe will leave you saying "Oww, hot!" in the best way possible.
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
Finely chop the red onion, garlic cloves, and pili pili (or red chilies). For extra heat, include the seeds.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Stir in the chopped pili pili or red chilies, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the aromas of the spices.
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the spiced oil mixture.
Season with salt and black pepper, then continue to cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender but still slightly crisp.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the dish, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve immediately as a spicy side dish or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian main dish.
Calories |
728 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.8 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 9831 mg | 427% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.0 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.4 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 61.8 g | ||
| Protein | 11.2 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 199 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 5.4 mg | 30% | |
| Potassium | 2116 mg | 45% | |
*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.