Zucchini Recipes

Zucchini is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are three beginner-friendly recipes to help you make the most of zucchini in your cooking.

1. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
   • Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to turn the zucchinis into noodles (zoodles).
   • If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a knife to slice the zucchini into thin strips.
2. Cook the Zoodles:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened but still have some crunch.
3. Add the Pesto:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and add the basil pesto.
   • Toss to coat the zoodles evenly.
4. Serve:
   • Transfer the zucchini noodles to a serving dish.
   • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Garnish with cherry tomatoes if desired.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Cut the zucchinis into sticks, about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
3. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
   • Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake the Fries:
   • Place the coated zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Lightly spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the baked zucchini fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch dressing.

3. Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise.
   • Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and create a well in the center of each zucchini half.
3. Cook the Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stuff the Zucchini:
   • Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish.
   • Fill each zucchini boat with the meat mixture.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
   • Serve the stuffed zucchini boats hot.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Dishes:

• Freshness: Choose firm, fresh zucchinis for the best texture and flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Zucchini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Flavor Boost: Add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of your zucchini dishes.

Enjoy these versatile and delicious zucchini recipes for a nutritious and satisfying meal!

4o