Zucchini

Cucurbita pepo Vegetable

Zucchini Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble harvest hero, quietly absorbing flavors and adding moisture to every dish it graces."

Definition

A mild-flavored summer squash with dark green skin and white flesh, popular for its versatility in sweet and savory dishes.

Fiber Content ~1g per 100g
Peak Season Summer (June-August)
Water Content ~95%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Zucchini are:

Mild slightly sweet earthy delicate

Chef’s Secret

To prevent watery dishes when cooking zucchini, salt sliced or grated zucchini and let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture before cooking.

Best Substitutes

Cucumber

raw, for crunch
Ratio 1:1

Yellow Squash

cooked
Ratio 1:1

Eggplant

for texture in some dishes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose small to medium-sized zucchini that are firm, shiny, and free of blemishes. Larger ones tend to be watery and seedy.

Recipes Using Zucchini

Eggs Dairy Meat Oven Time To Make

Zucchini And Rice Casserole

This nostalgic zucchini casserole recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations! Tender zucchini, savory beef, and creamy cheese combine in a comforting baked dish perfect for a weeknight meal or potluck. Get ready to experience a taste of home!

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Eggs Dairy Side Dishes Inexpensive Easy

Basic Zucchini Slice

This incredibly versatile and flavorful Basic Zucchini Slice recipe is a must-try! Easily adaptable to your taste, this recipe delivers a delicious, satisfying bake perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. Add some diced chorizo for a spicy kick – the possibilities are endless!

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Preparation Course Preparation Main Dish

Moroccan Patties With Minted Cucumber Salad

These healthy and delicious Moroccan patties are incredibly easy to make! Inspired by global flavors, this recipe delivers a vibrant and refreshing meal. Enjoy perfectly crispy patties (optional: use a George Foreman grill for stunning presentation!) paired with a cool, minty cucumber salad. Customize the spice level with your preferred amount of coriander, and use store-bought or homemade Moroccan seasoning. A delightful twist: we've added French vanilla yogurt to the salad for a creamy, unexpected flavor! Get ready to impress!

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Low In Something Course Squash Pasta Rice And Grains

Angel Hair Pasta With Roasted Garlic

This heavenly Angel Hair Pasta recipe elevates a classic with intensely flavorful roasted garlic, sautéed zucchini, and mushrooms, all tossed in a vibrant lemon-mustard sauce. Inspired by a Kraft recipe, this dish is quick to prepare yet bursting with taste. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, get ready to impress with this simple yet elegant pasta creation!

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Main Ingredient Weeknight Equipment Middle Eastern

Baked Kafta

Experience the authentic flavors of Lebanon with this Baked Kafta recipe, adapted from Mary Salloum's beloved cookbook, "A Taste of Lebanon." Juicy kafta patties, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, are baked to perfection with tender carrots. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Impress your family and friends with this classic Lebanese dish!

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Lactose Occasion Healthy Time To Make

Banana Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins

Indulge in these incredibly moist and delicious Banana Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins! This healthy twist on a classic is perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat. Enjoy them as individual muffins or bake as a loaf – the choice is yours! Get ready for a burst of banana and chocolate flavor in every bite.

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Potatoes Inexpensive Healthy 2 Potatoes

Alpine Vegetable Soup

This hearty Alpine Vegetable Soup is a comforting and flavorful adaptation from Jane Brody's Good Food Cookbook. Perfect for a quick and inexpensive winter supper, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste and what's in season! Use any combination of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, or add turnips, parsnips, or other favorites for extra depth of flavor. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Asian Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Asian

Bibimbop

Craving authentic Korean Bibimbop? This recipe recreates the delicious Bibimbop I savored at my favorite college haunt! Inspired by the Moosewood Restaurant's vegetarian version, this recipe is easily customizable. Add savory pork (highly recommended!), chicken, or beef for extra protein, or keep it vegetarian. Learn how to make this vibrant, flavorful dish packed with colorful vegetables and tender meat (optional). Get ready for a taste of Korea in your kitchen!

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Preparation Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Main Dish

Beef And Zucchini Burgers

Juicy beef burgers get a vibrant, healthy upgrade with the addition of zucchini! This recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic hamburger, sneaking in extra veggies for a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, these flavorful burgers are sure to become a family favorite. Prepare to be amazed by the burst of fresh zucchini flavor!

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Preparation Dietary Main Dish Easy

Beef Kabob

Juicy marinated beef kabobs grilled to perfection alongside perfectly cooked vegetables! This recipe lets you customize your veggie skewers for optimal grilling times, ensuring everything is cooked just right. Tender steak, vibrant vegetables, and a mouthwatering marinade combine for a summer grilling masterpiece.

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Salads Low Sodium Time To Make Asian

Almond Vegetable Slaw

This vibrant and crunchy Almond Vegetable Slaw is a healthy and delicious recipe, adapted from the Almond Board of California. Packed with fresh vegetables and crunchy almonds, this light and refreshing salad is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy side dish. Julienned or chopped veggies work great – customize it to your liking! The zesty lemon-herb dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the vegetables and the satisfying crunch of the almonds.

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Main Ingredient Equipment Romantic North American

Baked Chicken With Cream Cheese Vegetable Topping

Delight your taste buds with this irresistible Baked Chicken recipe! Tender chicken breasts are topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese mixture bursting with fresh bell peppers, onions, carrots, and zucchini. A simple, elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get the recipe now!

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Low Calorie Soups Stews Low Fat Equipment

Bean And Pasta Soup

A hearty and flavorful bean and pasta soup, inspired by a classic Campbell's recipe! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal and is packed with fresh vegetables and protein. Get ready for a comforting bowl of deliciousness in under 45 minutes!

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Dietary Course Main Dish Dietary

Baked Eggplant Chili Casserole

Comfort food at its finest! This hearty vegetarian Baked Eggplant Chili Casserole is packed with flavor and satisfying texture. Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make vegan chili, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Loaded with eggplant, beans, and spices, it's a flavorful explosion in every bite!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Side Dishes 3 Steps Or Less Main Ingredient

Apricot Almond Quinoa

A vibrant and healthy Apricot Almond Quinoa Salad! This gluten-free recipe makes a delightful side dish or light meal. Sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and fluffy quinoa combine for a burst of flavor and texture. Perfect for a summer picnic or a weeknight dinner. Get the recipe now!

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One Dish Meal Main Dish Equipment Course

Beef And Zucchini Pasta Skillet Meal

This hearty Beef and Zucchini Pasta Skillet is a family-favorite weeknight meal! No need for boiling pasta separately – everything cooks together in one pan for easy cleanup. Tender beef, vibrant zucchini, and flavorful pasta combine for a delicious and budget-friendly dinner (estimated cost under $2 per serving!). Inspired by a family recipe, this updated version is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Dietary Low Calorie Oven Vegetables

Baked Zucchini With Tomatoes

This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired bake is bursting with fresh flavors! Tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes roast to perfection, creating a simple yet elegant side dish or light vegetarian meal. Pair it with roast chicken, pasta, or your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying dinner. Ready in under an hour!

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4 Hours Or Less Preparation Course Low Calorie

Baked Greek Style Omelette Gluten Free

A fluffy, flavorful Greek-style omelette, perfect for a delightful brunch or light lunch! This gluten-free recipe, inspired by Valli Little, bakes to golden perfection and is brimming with fresh herbs, vegetables, and creamy feta. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, yet elegant dish.

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