Quick Zucchini Dip with Tomatoes and Mint

Place the onion in a skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring regularly, until softened and just beginning to color.

Add the green bell pepper, tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the tomatoes soften and the tomato paste is evenly incorporated.

Add the chopped zucchini or scooped-out zucchini flesh to the skillet and stir over medium heat until evenly coated with the tomato mixture.

Add the water, black pepper, cinnamon, salt, and dried mint. Stir over medium heat until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat until the zucchini is tender and the sauce has thickened without drying out.

Serve with cucumber and garnish with fresh mint, if desired, for a refreshing finish. You can also add a squeeze of lemon to taste.