The Nutty Zucchini Halwa

Nutty Zucchini Halwa is a unique and delicious twist on the traditional Indian halwa. This dessert is made with grated zucchini, slow-cooked with milk, and enriched with a medley of nuts, raisins, and a hint of cardamom. The zucchini absorbs the richness of the milk while lending a subtle natural sweetness to the dish. The warm aroma of cardamom ties everything together, making this a satisfying and wholesome dessert.

For a Serving Size of Two:

Ingredients:

• 200 grams grated zucchini
• 10 grams chopped almonds
• 10 grams chopped cashews
• 10 grams chopped walnuts
• 10 grams raisins
• 2 teaspoons ghee
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 200 ml milk
• 1-2 finely chopped dates

Procedure:

• Grate the zucchini and squeeze out the excess water using a muslin cloth or by pressing it between your hands.
• Heat ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped almonds, cashews, and walnuts, and roast until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove the roasted nuts and set them aside.
• In the same pan, add the grated zucchini and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it softens and starts to change color.
• Pour in the milk and stir well. Cook the mixture on medium heat until the milk is absorbed and the zucchini mixture thickens. Stir continuously to avoid sticking.
• Once the milk is absorbed, add the roasted nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and chopped dates to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the halwa reaches your desired consistency.
• Remove from heat and serve the Nutty Zucchini Halwa warm. Garnish with a few additional chopped nuts on top if desired.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Nutty Zucchini Halwa is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is also hydrating and supports digestion.
• The nuts—almonds, cashews, and walnuts—are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.
• Dates and raisins provide natural sweetness while offering fiber, iron, and potassium, supporting digestive health and energy levels.
• Cardamom, a key ingredient in many traditional Indian desserts, is known for its digestive benefits and its ability to enhance the flavor profile of dishes with its aromatic spice. The use of milk adds calcium and protein, making this halwa a nourishing dessert that is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Overall, Nutty Zucchini Halwa is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy dessert,

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 485 kcal
• Protein: 15.7 g
• Carbohydrates: 51.0 g
• Fat: 25.3 g