Zucchini Spread

Ingredients:

• Zucchini medium, grated - 3
• Carrot medium, grated - 1
• Onion, finely chopped - 1
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Diced Tomatoes - 2 cans
• Salt and Ground Black Pepper, to taste - 1 tsp
• Sugar, optional - 1 tsp
• Vegetable Oil, for cooking - 3 tablespoons

Steps:

1. Prepare all vegetables. Chop finely the Onion and Garlic, if using Celery and Bell Pepper too. Grate the Zucchini and Carrot.
2. Heat Vegetable Oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Onion and Garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Carrot, and after 5 minutes add the Bell Pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Next, pour in the Crushed Tomatoes and Celery (if using). Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are fully integrated and the spread has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally.
5. Add grated Zucchini, season with Salt, Black Pepper, dried Oregano, and other condiments (if using). Stir to combine and simmer for another 15 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Serve as a spread on toast, as a dip with crackers or vegetables, or as a topping for sandwiches.