Zucchini Squash Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook This Summer Veggie

My garden's currently overflowing with zucchini! I adore the flavour, but inevitably end up with more than I can eat fresh. So, I'm always on the hunt for exciting new ways to use it up. And trust me, there's a world of delicious options out there! From simple sides to hearty main courses, zucchini can be the star of your summer meals. In this article, I'm sharing some of my favourite zucchini recipes that are not only delicious but also super easy to make. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

(Part 1) Zucchini Basics: A Quick Overview

Before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about zucchini itself. This versatile veggie is a perfect way to bring a touch of summer sunshine to your meals. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know:

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When picking out zucchini at the market, aim for firm and glossy ones with smooth skin and no blemishes. Steer clear of zucchini that's soft or wrinkled, as this indicates it's overripe. The size doesn't matter too much, but for most recipes, medium-sized ones work best. If you're grilling or roasting, smaller zucchini are easier to cook.

storing zucchini

To keep your zucchini fresh for as long as possible, store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or a paper towel to help absorb any excess moisture. Avoid storing it with fruits or vegetables that produce ethylene gas, like bananas or tomatoes, as this can accelerate ripening and make your zucchini mushy.

Zucchini in the Kitchen: A Versatile Ingredient

Zucchini is a culinary chameleon! It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, baked, or even added to smoothies or juices. It makes a fantastic base for dips, a filling for frittatas, or the star ingredient in pasta sauces. The possibilities are truly endless!

(Part 2) Simple and Savoury: Zucchini side dishes

Zucchini is a fantastic foundation for light and refreshing side dishes. Here are a few of my go-to recipes:

1. Roasted Zucchini with Herbs

This is a classic for a reason! It's incredibly simple, yet bursting with flavour. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, diced
2. 2 tbsp olive oil
3. 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the diced zucchini with the olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper. Spread the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. This side dish is perfect alongside grilled fish or chicken, or as a simple addition to a summer salad.

2. Sauteed Zucchini with Garlic and Lemon

A quick and easy side dish that's perfect for weeknight meals. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, sliced thinly
2. 1 tbsp olive oil
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. Juice of 1/2 lemon
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This side dish is lovely served alongside pasta, grilled meats, or simply on its own.

3. zucchini fritters

These are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy zucchini. They're a great appetizer or side dish, and a wonderful way to use up extra zucchini. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, grated
2. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4. 1 egg, beaten
5. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. Olive oil for frying

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce. I love a dollop of sour cream or a simple yogurt dip.

(Part 3) Zucchini Mains: Beyond the Side Dish

Zucchini can easily be the star of the show. Here are some of my favourite recipes featuring zucchini as the main attraction:

4. zucchini noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles, or "zoodles" as they're affectionately known, are a fantastic way to lighten up your pasta dishes. They're surprisingly versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes. Here's what you'll need:

1. 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
2. 1/2 cup pesto
3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4. Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the zucchini noodles according to the package directions. A spiralizer is the easiest way to make zucchini noodles, but you can also use a julienne peeler or a sharp knife to cut thin strips of zucchini. Once the zucchini noodles are cooked, toss them with the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

You can also add other ingredients to your zucchini noodle dish, such as cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or grilled chicken. Get creative and experiment with different flavour combinations! I love to add a splash of lemon juice for a bright and tangy flavour.

5. Zucchini and Corn Fritters

These fritters are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy zucchini. They're perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, grated
2. 1 cup frozen corn kernels
3. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. 1 egg, beaten
6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Olive oil for frying

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, corn, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the fritter mixture into the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

6. zucchini bread

Zucchini bread is a classic comfort food. It's moist, delicious, and perfect for a sweet treat or a light breakfast. Here's what you'll need:

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 tsp baking soda
3. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
4. 1/2 tsp salt
5. 1 cup granulated sugar
6. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
7. 2 eggs
8. 1 tsp vanilla extract
9. 1 cup grated zucchini
10. 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini and nuts (if using). Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

(Part 4) Beyond the Usual: Creative Zucchini Dishes

Let's get creative! Here are some unique and tasty zucchini recipes that you might not have tried before:

7. Zucchini Pizza

This is a fun and healthy twist on the classic pizza. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
2. 1/4 cup pizza sauce
3. 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4. Your favourite pizza toppings (such as pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, or peppers)

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each slice with a dollop of pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and your favourite toppings. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also cook the zucchini pizza on a grill for a smoky flavour.

For an even more flavourful zucchini pizza, try brushing the zucchini slices with olive oil and seasoning with herbs before topping with your favourite pizza ingredients.

8. Zucchini and Ricotta Tart

This tart is a delicious and elegant way to enjoy zucchini. It's perfect for a special occasion or a potluck dinner. You can even make this ahead of time for a stress-free meal.

Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 sheet of puff pastry
2. 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
3. 1 cup ricotta cheese
4. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. 1 egg, beaten
6. 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a tart pan with the puff pastry. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Spread the ricotta mixture over the puff pastry. Arrange the zucchini slices on top of the ricotta mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the zucchini is tender.

This tart can be served warm or at room temperature, and it's a great option for a light and delicious meal.

9. Zucchini and corn salad

This salad is a light and refreshing way to enjoy zucchini. It's perfect for a summer picnic or a side dish for a barbecue. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 medium zucchini, diced
2. 1 cup frozen corn kernels
3. 1/2 cup chopped red onion
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
5. 1/4 cup lime juice
6. 2 tbsp olive oil
7. Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, corn, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Adding a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds or pepitas gives this salad a delicious crunch.

(Part 5) Zucchini for Breakfast: A Delicious Start to the Day

Zucchini isn't just for dinner! Here are some breakfast recipes that will make you excited to start your day with this versatile veggie:

10. Zucchini Muffins

These muffins are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy zucchini for breakfast. They're moist, flavorful, and perfect for on-the-go. The zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of moisture to these muffins, making them irresistible! Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 tsp baking soda
3. 1/2 tsp salt
4. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
5. 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
6. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
7. 2 eggs
8. 1 tsp vanilla extract
9. 1 cup grated zucchini
10. 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini and nuts (if using). Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Zucchini Pancakes

These pancakes are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy zucchini for breakfast. They're fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for a weekend brunch. The zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of moisture to these pancakes, making them irresistible! Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
2. 1 tsp baking powder
3. 1/2 tsp salt
4. 1 tbsp sugar
5. 1 egg
6. 1 cup milk
7. 1/4 cup melted butter
8. 1 cup grated zucchini

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Serve hot with your favourite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or fruit.

(Part 6) Zucchini Smoothies: A Refreshing and Healthy Choice

Looking for a healthy and refreshing way to incorporate zucchini into your diet? Try adding it to your smoothies! Here's why it's a great choice and some delicious recipes:

The Benefits of Zucchini in Smoothies

Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable that's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's also a good source of fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. In smoothies, zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess without adding any extra sugar.

The subtle flavor of zucchini allows it to blend seamlessly into a variety of smoothie combinations. It works well with both fruit-based and green smoothies, and its texture adds a delightful creaminess that complements the other ingredients.

Zucchini Smoothie Recipes

Here are a couple of my favourite zucchini smoothie recipes:

12. Green Machine Smoothie

This smoothie is a great way to get your daily dose of greens. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1 cup spinach
2. 1/2 cup grated zucchini
3. 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
4. 1/2 cup coconut water
5. 1 tbsp chia seeds

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Enjoy immediately.

This smoothie is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, making it a perfect choice for a healthy breakfast or a post-workout snack.

13. Tropical Zucchini Smoothie

This smoothie is a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy zucchini. Here's what you'll need:

1. 1/2 cup grated zucchini
2. 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
3. 1/4 cup frozen banana slices
4. 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
5. 1 tbsp honey (optional)

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Adjust the sweetness to your liking with honey if desired. Enjoy immediately.

This smoothie is a perfect blend of tropical sweetness and zucchini's subtle flavour. It's a great way to cool down on a hot day and get a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals.

(Part 7) Zucchini Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make your zucchini adventures even better:

Tips for Grilling Zucchini

Grilling zucchini is a fantastic way to bring out its natural sweetness and flavour. Here's how to do it right:

1. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. You can also add a sprinkle of your favourite herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
3. Grill the zucchini slices over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. Watch out for flare-ups, as zucchini can sometimes produce a lot of smoke on the grill.

For an extra burst of flavour, try grilling the zucchini slices with a little bit of balsamic vinegar or honey before serving.

Tips for Roasting Zucchini

Roasting zucchini is a simple and delicious way to cook it. Here's how to get it right:

1. Dice the zucchini into 1/2-inch cubes. Larger pieces will take longer to roast and may not cook evenly. Smaller pieces will cook more quickly and have a more tender texture.
2. Toss the zucchini with olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper. I love to use a combination of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano, along with a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavour.
3. Spread the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. For a crispier texture, you can roast the zucchini for a few extra minutes.

Tips for Sautéing Zucchini

Sautéing zucchini is a quick and easy way to cook it. Here's how to get it right:

1. Slice the zucchini thinly. This will allow it to cook more evenly and quickly. You can also use a mandoline for perfectly thin slices.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Don't overcrowd the skillet, or the zucchini will steam instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Tips for Using Zucchini in Baking

Zucchini is a great addition to baked goods. It adds moisture and a subtle sweetness. Here are some tips for using zucchini in baking:

1. Grate the zucchini finely to ensure it blends well with the batter. This will prevent large chunks of zucchini from showing up in your final product.
2. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter. This will prevent your baked goods from being soggy.
3. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations! Zucchini pairs well with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, lemon zest, and chocolate. You can also add other ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

(Part 8) Zucchini FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about zucchini, along with helpful answers:

1. How do you know when zucchini is ripe?

You can tell if zucchini is ripe by looking at its size, texture, and colour. A ripe zucchini will be firm, glossy, and have a vibrant green colour. It should be free of blemishes, wrinkles, or soft spots.

2. Can you eat the skin of zucchini?

Yes! You can eat the skin of zucchini. It's perfectly edible and adds texture and flavour to your dishes. However, if you prefer, you can peel the zucchini before cooking it. The skin is a good source of fiber and nutrients, so I recommend leaving it on for most recipes.

3. How long does zucchini last in the refrigerator?

Zucchini can last in the refrigerator for about 5-7 days if stored properly. Wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture and store it in the crisper drawer. Avoid storing it near fruits or vegetables that produce ethylene gas, which can cause it to ripen faster.

4. What are some substitutes for zucchini?

If you don't have zucchini on hand, you can substitute it with other summer squash varieties, such as yellow squash, pattypan squash, or crookneck squash. These squash have similar textures and flavours, but may have a slightly different appearance. You can also use eggplant, which has a similar texture and flavour profile, although it may require longer cooking times.

5. What are some creative ways to use up leftover zucchini?

There are many creative ways to use up leftover zucchini! You can:

1. Add it to soups or stews. Zucchini can be diced and added to your favourite soup recipes, adding a touch of sweetness and freshness. It's a great way to bulk up soups and stews while adding nutrients.
2. Sauté it with garlic and serve over rice or pasta. This is a simple and delicious way to use up leftover zucchini. You can add other vegetables like onions, peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavour.
3. Make zucchini chips by slicing it thinly, tossing it with olive oil and seasonings, and baking it until crispy. This is a healthy and delicious alternative to potato chips. Try different seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or herbs.
4. Blend it into smoothies or juices. Zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of creaminess to smoothies and juices. It's a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables.
5. Roast it with herbs and spices and serve it as a side dish. This is a simple and flavorful way to use up leftover zucchini. You can roast it with other vegetables like carrots, onions, or bell peppers.

The possibilities are truly endless! Just get creative and experiment with different flavour combinations. Don't be afraid to try something new.