By Marrakech recipes
This Moroccan Zaalouk recipe is a smoky, spiced eggplant and tomato salad that works as a healthy appetizer, side dish, or dip! Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and bold Moroccan flavors, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free—perfect for sharing or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Zaalouk Recipe
✅ Authentic Moroccan flavors – Smoky roasted eggplant, garlic, cumin, and paprika create a rich, spiced taste.
✅ Versatile dish – Serve as a dip with bread, a salad, or a sauce for veggies and rice.
✅ Nutrient-packed – Loaded with lycopene (from tomatoes), fiber (eggplant), and gut-friendly garlic.
✅ Easy to make – Simple ingredients, one-pan cooking, and flexible methods (oven or air fryer).
What Is Zaalouk?
Zaalouk is a classic Moroccan cooked salad made with eggplant (aubergine), tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices like cumin and paprika. It’s often served as a dip with bread or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or tagines.
Unlike baba ganoush (which is smoother and tahini-based), zaalouk has a chunkier texture and a deeper, spiced tomato flavor.
Ingredients for Moroccan Zaalouk
Main Ingredients
Spices & Seasonings
How to Make Zaalouk (Step-by-Step)
1. Roast the Eggplant
- Prick eggplants with a fork, brush with oil, and roast (oven: 50-60 mins at 400°F / air fryer: 25 mins at 390°F).
- Let cool, then peel and chop.
2. Cook the Tomato Base
- Sauté chopped tomatoes, garlic, tomato paste, and spices until thick (~10 mins).
3. Combine & Simmer
- Mix in the roasted eggplant and cook for 10-15 mins until thick.
4. Garnish & Serve
- Drizzle with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh parsley.
- Enjoy with warm bread, veggies, or rice!
Serving Suggestions
- As a dip – With pita, crusty bread, or crackers.
- With proteins – Great alongside grilled chicken or fish.
- Meal prep – Stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|
| 131kcal | 23g | 4g | 9g |
Rich in: Vitamin A, C, iron, and antioxidants.
FAQs
Can I make zaalouk ahead?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
Is zaalouk gluten-free?
Yes, if served with gluten-free bread.
Can I freeze zaalouk?
It’s best fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Final Thoughts
This Moroccan Zaalouk recipe was an instant hit in my home—my family couldn’t get enough of its smoky, spiced flavors! It’s now a staple on our table, whether as a dip for bread, a salad, or a sauce for grilled veggies.
If you loved this taste of Morocco, try my Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Apricots & Chickpeas next! It’s another crowd-pleasing dish packed with sweet and savory North African spices.
Happy cooking! 🌿
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