A versatile and budget-friendly vegetable, we are giving an often undervalued veggie – the zucchini – a moment in the spotlight. 

 

Origin of the zucchini

Zucchini originated in the Americas (Mesoamerica, which is the part of North America that extends from central Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and northern Costa Rica). Along with corn, beans, squash, cocoa, vanilla, potatoes, tomatoes, bell and chili peppers, zucchini was introduced to the wider world after Columbus’ voyage in 1492.

 

Zucchini varieties

There are numerous zucchini varieties including ‘Blackjack’ and ‘Black Beauty’ (dark green zucchini) Lebanese and ‘Cocozelle’ zucchini (light green), ‘Golden’ zucchini (yellow) and ‘Greyzine’ (pale colour). There is also ‘Rondo’ (round zucchini) and ‘Tromboncino’ (long and thin), amongst others. Ask our friendly traders if you want to know more about what is in stock when you do your shop.

 

Size and flavour

Zucchini can range in size from petite to large and regardless of size, most have a similar, mild flavour that is influenced by the way it is prepared. Whether they are eaten raw, added to a salad, lightly grilled or even filled, zucchini is a delicious and versatile vegetable that is jam-packed with nutrients. 

 

Nutritional benefits

This green vegetable is an excellent source of Vitamins C and B6 and there are also small amounts of Vitamin A, folate, riboflavin, and thiamin. Minerals in zucchini include manganese, potassium, and small amounts of magnesium and phosphorus*. 

 

Australian zucchinis

Lucky for us, zucchinis are grown all across Australia. The major production areas include the Atherton Tablelands, Bowen, the Bathurst region and the Sunraysia region in Victoria. 

 

How to store zucchinis

To keep your zucchinis fresher for longer, we recommend storing zucchini in the fridge, whole and unwashed. Preferably in the crisper drawer, to ensure humidity is kept low. 

 

Best way to eat zucchini

Zucchini can be enjoyed in so many different ways and the thin skin and soft flesh makes it suitable for steaming, grilling, baking, roasting and sautéing. 

Below are some family-friendly ways to enjoy zucchini and, maybe you’ll discover a new way to eat this delicious vegetable.

– Grilled zucchini. Simply preheat a BBQ or grill on medium-high, coat zucchini slices with olive oil and grill for 3-5 minutes each side. A magnificent side dish for a BBQ! 

–  Zucchini ‘Pasta’, sometimes known as zoodles. Use a spiralizer or mandoline to make ‘spaghetti’, or peel thin pieces of zucchini to make a ‘pasta’ and you have a low-carb alternative to traditional pastas that soaks up a sauce beautifully. You can eat them raw, microwave, microwave, sauté, or boil for one minute. 

– Vegetable Crudité. Dip raw zucchini slices in your favourite dip and you have a healthy and delicious snack, or a great addition to a grazing board. 

– Year-round salads or sides. Zucchini works beautifully in a summer salad, or even added to your roasting tray for your roast veg side. 

– Zucchini slices or muffins. Grated zucchini can be used for zucchini slices and even savoury or sweet muffins and breads. There really is a recipe that the whole family will enjoy. 

 

Make sure you add zucchini to the list for your next Prahran Market shop, where you can get them from Pino’s Fine Produce, Ripe The Organic Grocer, F & J Fruiterers, Damian Pike, Reliable Fruit, Paddlewheel and Fruto.  

If you would like some zucchini recipe inspiration, check out the below on the Prahran Market website:

 

Source

* https://www.verywellfit.com/summer-squash-and-zucchini-nutrition-facts-4114725