Turkish Squash and Carrot Recipes You Can’t Miss

Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, and one delicious staple is the combination of squash and carrots. These nutritious vegetables offer versatility in various dishes. Here are some amazing Turkish squash and carrot recipes you can't miss!

1. Zucchini Fritters (Misket Kabak Mücveri)

These savory zucchini fritters, known as mücver, are a delightful snack or appetizer. They're easy to prepare and can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

• Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, grated; 1 cup grated carrots; 1 cup feta cheese; 1 egg; ½ cup flour; 1 tsp baking powder; salt and pepper to taste; olive oil for frying.
• Instructions: In a bowl, mix grated zucchini, carrots, feta, and egg. Stir in flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Serve with yogurt for dipping.

2. Stuffed Zucchini (Kabak Dolması)

Stuffed zucchini or kabak dolması is a traditional Turkish dish that's hearty and fulfilling. The stuffing is typically made with rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices.

• Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup rice; ½ lb ground beef or lamb; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tomatoes, diced; 1 tsp paprika; salt and pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup broth.
• Instructions: Hollow out the zucchinis and set aside. In a pan, sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. Add ground meat, cooking until browned. Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stuff the zucchinis with the mixture. Place them in a pot, add broth, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until zucchinis are tender. Enjoy warm!

3. Carrot and Zucchini Salad (Havuçlu Kabak Salatası)

A refreshing salad packed with color and nutrients, this carrot and zucchini salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.

• Ingredients: 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced; 2 carrots, grated; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper; ¼ cup chopped parsley.
• Instructions: In a large bowl, combine sliced zucchinis and grated carrots. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss well and sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

4. Baked Carrot and Squash Casserole (Balkabaklı Havuçlu Fırın)

This baked casserole brings together the natural sweetness of carrots and squash for a comforting dish that's perfect as a main or side.

• Ingredients: 2 cups sliced squash; 2 cups sliced carrots; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cheese (optional); salt and pepper; 2 tbsp butter.
• Instructions: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer sliced squash and carrots. Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft and add to the dish. Season with salt and pepper, then top with cheese if desired. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender and golden.

5. Turkish Carrot and Zucchini Soup (Havuçlu Kabak Çorbası)

This warm, comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and showcases the natural flavors of carrots and squash.

• Ingredients: 2 zucchinis, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; salt and pepper; olive oil.
• Instructions: In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add diced carrots and zucchinis, cooking for a few minutes. Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 20 minutes. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture, and serve hot.