Five New Ways to Use Zucchini

If you are reading this, you may have a zucchini problem. Summer is the height of this green vegetable’s season, which means you either have it growing out of your ears in your own home garden, or you are finding it on the cheap at every farmers’ market. But how does one use this versatile and tasty veggie? Sure, you can grill it up on a kebab or throw it into a stir-fry, but there must be something new and exciting out there, right?

Despite its overall mild taste and texture, zucchini has other benefits to offer you in the kitchen. For instance, it is loaded with many important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also rich in fiber, which is not only known to help keep things moving (if you know what we mean), but also helps to feed your good gut bacteria, aiding in digestion and even weight loss.

Before you start to make the world’s largest stir-fry with all that zucchini, you might want to think about some new ways to make use of this seemingly ordinary vegetable. As a consistent crowd pleaser, zucchini is not only versatile but can help you sneak some vegetable goodness in for those picky eaters as well. Check out some fun and exciting ways to get an extra dose of this green veggie below!

Want to please every single person in your family? Make a homemade dessert tonight. Want to feel better about what you are feeding your kids? Add a vegetable to their dessert. This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a rich and delicious way to use up summer’s bounty! Save the leftovers (if there are any) for breakfast in the morning.

Do you love pizza? Swap the crust for some zucchini! Although it may sound like we are trying to convince you to go ultra-healthy and low carb, no worries. The cheese and sauce on these Zucchini Pizza Boats make this vegetable so delicious you might even want seconds. The best part? They only take about 30 minutes to make.

The popularity of zoodles (zucchini noodles) has won this green vegetable the award for most versatile garden goodie in many households. You have probably heard of this trend, but have you tried it? Fresh zoodles are incredibly easy to make and level up your pasta dish from semi-healthy to guilt free. This Zucchini Pasta Caprese is a fresh, light, healthy and easy summer meal that is perfect for any day of the week. 

Pistou is the French version of pesto, Italy’s famous topping for just about anything. You can put it on pasta, soup and even a baguette for an extra boost of flavor. Although usually made with leafy greens and herbs such as kale, arugula and basil, this version is made using our giant green friend, zucchini. You can use a bunch of your own garden-fresh goodness to make a huge batch of this fresh pistou and then freeze it in ice cube trays or small resealable containers to use later in the winter. 

If you have ever grilled zucchini, you know how easy it is to do. However, sometimes it lacks flavor and, when just left to its own devices as a side dish, doesn’t really wow a crowd. So next time you are having friends or family over to eat, dress up your grilled zucchini in some nacho toppings. This easy recipe is super versatile and delicious for even the pickiest-to-please in your tribe. Have vegetarian friends? Throw in some black beans. Want to make it a meal? Use some taco meat. Whatever you do, have some fun!

Because of its mild taste and texture, zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a myriad of ways right in your own kitchen. Use nature’s bounty this season by trying one of these new ways to dress up some garden goodness.