Name: Creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip You'll Want at Every Party
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Zucchini (Diced and sautéed); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For sautéing and drizzling); 1/4 cup Tahini Paste; 1/2 cup Greek-Style Yogurt (Can substitute with dairy-free yogurt for vegan version); 1 clove Garlic (Minced); 1 tablespoon Dried Mint (Can substitute with fresh mint in smaller amounts); 1/2 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed); Salt to taste Salt; Pepper to taste Pepper; optional Pomegranate Molasses (Can substitute with agave syrup)

While preparing a feast for friends, I stumbled upon an incredible gem from Palestinian cuisine: Creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip, or Mutabal Kousa. This heavenly dip combines sautéed zucchini, rich tahini, and tangy Greek yogurt, creating a nutritious and satisfying meze that everyone will love. It’s not only a showstopper at gatherings, but it’s also a breeze to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. With hints of bright lemon and refreshing dried mint, this dip is versatile enough to pair well with warm pita, crisp veggies, or as part of a larger spread. Are you ready to dive into the creamy world of Mutabal Kousa? Let’s get started!

Why is this dip a must-try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The delightful combination of creamy tahini and tangy yogurt creates a flavor explosion that your taste buds will crave.

Easy Preparation: Just a few simple steps lead to a dish that looks and tastes gourmet—perfect for any home cook!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a party or family dinner, this Palestinian Zucchini Dip is bound to impress your guests and become a beloved staple.

Versatile Pairing: This dip complements an array of dishes, from warm pita to crunchy veggies, making it a fantastic addition to any meze platter alongside traditional favorites like hummus or baba ganoush.

Health-Conscious Choice: High in fiber and loaded with healthy fats, this dip not only satisfies cravings but also nourishes your body.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Whip it up in advance, store it in the fridge, and let the flavors meld for a few hours—another win for your busy lifestyle!

Palestinian Zucchini Dip Ingredients

• Experience the creamy delight with these simple ingredients!

For the Dip

Zucchini – Fresh, firm zucchini is essential for the best texture and subtle sweetness.
Tahini Paste – Adds richness and nutty flavor; try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free substitute.
Greek-Style Yogurt – Contributes a creamy tang; swap with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
Garlic Clove – Enhances depth; adjust to taste, and consider roasted garlic for a sweeter profile.
Dried Mint – Brings a refreshing herbaceous note; fresh mint can be used but in smaller amounts.
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed adds brightness that complements the dip’s richness.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Boosts flavor and smoothness; a high-quality oil is best for drizzling.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your liking.
Pomegranate Molasses (optional) – Sweetens and deepens flavor; agave syrup can substitute but offers different tanginess.

Enjoy making this Palestinian Zucchini Dip—it’s a delightful addition to any meze platter!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip

Step 1: Sauté the Zucchini
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 2 cups of diced zucchini and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden and caramelized. This step boosts the zucchini’s natural sweetness, creating a rich foundation for your creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip.

Step 2: Drain and Cool
Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the sautéed zucchini to a sieve placed over a bowl to drain away excess moisture. Allow the zucchini to cool completely for about 10 minutes. Proper draining is crucial to achieving a perfect creamy texture while preventing your dip from becoming watery later on.

Step 3: Mash the Zucchini
Once cooled, place the zucchini in a mixing bowl and use a fork to roughly mash it, leaving some rustic chunks for texture. This process should take just a few minutes; the goal is to create a coarsely mashed mixture that retains some zucchini pieces while still blending well into the dip.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
To the mashed zucchini, add 1/4 cup of tahini, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, one minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of dried mint, and the juice of half a lemon. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly dispersed throughout the zucchini mixture, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dip.

Step 5: Season and Adjust
Drizzle in an additional tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Mix again until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Take a moment to taste your creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip, adjusting seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, and for an elegant touch, drizzle with more olive oil on top. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of dried mint and an optional drizzle of pomegranate molasses for sweetness and visual appeal. Serve alongside warm pita bread, fresh veggies, or chips for dipping, making this dip a star attraction at your next gathering.

Variations & Substitutions for Palestinian Zucchini Dip

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delicious dip with these exciting variations!

Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for a coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan option without losing creaminess. The result is a delightful dip that retains its luscious texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to give your dip an extra layer of heat. It’s a fun way to change up the flavor profile for spice lovers.
Herb Lovers: Incorporate freshly chopped parsley or cilantro along with the dried mint for a fresh burst of flavor. These herbs not only enhance taste but also brighten the overall presentation.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of crushed walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch and earthy richness. This simple addition takes the texture to a whole new level while being healthy.
Roasted Veggies: Blend in some roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for a smoky, sweet depth. This twist adds complexity to the dip that invites everyone to dive right in.
Extra Tang: For a zesty punch, mix in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or more lemon juice. It elevates the freshness, making the flavors dance on your palate.
Sweet & Sour: Drizzle some pomegranate molasses on top for added sweetness and tang, or substitute with agave if preferred. This special touch gives the dip an intriguing finish, perfect for captivating guests.
Consistency Variance: For a smoother texture, you can puree the mixture in a food processor instead of mashing by hand. This results in a more luxurious mouthfeel, perfect for spreading on bread.

Let the creativity flow as you prepare your own version of this enticing Palestinian Zucchini Dip! And if you’re curious about other delicious options, check out our recipe for hummus or baba ganoush to complement your meze platter beautifully!

What to Serve with Creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip?

With its creamy, nutty flavors and vibrant notes, this delicious dip can elevate any gathering or cozy meal at home.

Warm Pita Bread: Soft, pillowy pita serves as the perfect vessel for scooping up the dip, balancing creaminess with its chewy texture.
Crunchy Veggies: Fresh carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth dip, adding color and nutrients.
Olives: Salty, briny olives complement the dip’s creaminess while introducing a Mediterranean flair, making every bite an adventure of flavors.
Meze Platter: Pair it with classic Middle Eastern staples like hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh for a delightful assortment of tastes and textures that will impress your guests.
Feta Cheese Crumbles: The tanginess of feta adds a delightful salty kick that pairs well with the sweetness of zucchini, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Crispy Pita Chips: For a twist on traditional dipping, serve with baked pita chips; their crunch provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy dip.
Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, this drink echoes the bright notes of lemon and mint in the dip, making it a perfect sip alongside your meal.

Each of these pairings enriches the experience and highlights the delightful nature of Palestinian Zucchini Dip, making your meal memorable!

Storage Tips for Palestinian Zucchini Dip

Fridge: Store the dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allowing it to sit for a couple of hours before serving enhances the flavors.

Freezer: If you wish to prepare it ahead of time, you can freeze the dip for up to one month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: For a fresh taste, gently reheat the dip on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to return some creaminess.

Enjoy Fresh: Freshness is key for the best experience; try to consume your Palestinian Zucchini Dip within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the zucchini and drain it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a burst of flavor when the dip is finally assembled. Simply refrigerate the sautéed zucchini in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. When it’s time to serve, mix the cooled zucchini with tahini, Greek yogurt, and the other ingredients as per the recipe. This way, your dip will be just as delicious, with fresher tastes and a smoother texture. Plus, making it ahead saves time on busy weeknights, and allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Expert Tips for Perfect Palestinian Zucchini Dip

Choose Fresh Zucchini: Using fresh, firm zucchini is essential to avoid a watery dip. Look for vibrant green colors and no soft spots for the best flavor.
Proper Drainage: Ensure you adequately drain the sautéed zucchini after cooking. This step prevents excess moisture, which can make your Palestinian Zucchini Dip too thin.
High-Quality Tahini: Opt for a high-quality tahini for a creamy texture and rich taste. An inferior brand may result in a grainy dip.
Taste as You Go: Before serving, taste your dip after mixing in the salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning based on your personal preference to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
Experiment with Variations: Don’t be afraid to customize your dip! Adding roasted red peppers or fresh herbs can elevate the traditional Palestinian Zucchini Dip to your own unique creation.
Let it Sit: For the best flavor, allow the dip to sit for a couple of hours after preparation. This time lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating a harmonious taste.

Palestinian Zucchini Dip Recipe FAQs

What type of zucchini should I use for the dip?
Absolutely! Fresh, firm zucchini is essential for the best texture and subtle sweetness. Look for vibrant green zucchinis with no dark spots or soft areas, as they’ll yield the perfect base for your creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip.

How long can I store the dip in the fridge?
You can store the dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend letting it sit in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I freeze the Palestinian Zucchini Dip for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dip for up to one month! To do this, transfer the cooled dip into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dip in the fridge overnight. For the best texture, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat with a splash of olive oil.

What if my dip turns out watery?
Very! If your dip ends up watery, it might be due to insufficient drainage of the zucchini or using overripe squash. To fix this, you can strain the dip using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. Additionally, for future preparations, make sure to let the sautéed zucchini cool and drain thoroughly before mixing.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dip?
Absolutely! This creamy Palestinian Zucchini Dip is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by substituting Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt. If you’re concerned about allergies, keep in mind that tahini is made from sesame seeds, so check for any sesame allergies among your guests.

Can I adjust the flavors of the dip?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize the flavors by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a delightful twist. You can also adjust the garlic to suit your taste—roasted garlic offers a milder, sweeter flavor than fresh garlic!