Zucchini Make fantastic summer squash with these quick and easy tips
Best to buy
Zucchini is available all year long, but peak during late spring.
Cut & clean
Zucchini is low maintenance. Keep it simple: give them a rinse under cool water, but leave the skins on. Slice lengthwise or widthwise, dice, or cut into matchstick-sized pieces.
The smaller, the tastier!
Smaller zucchinis have the most flavor.
Quick & easy recipe
Slice zucchini lengthwise and roast with sliced onions and a dash of salt and pepper for a super side dish.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Wash zucchini just before using. The thin skins don’t need to be removed. Slice zucchini lengthwise and roast with sliced onions, add to soups or crudités, or stew with tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Buying and storing tips
Zucchini are available all year long, but are at their peak during late spring. Select smaller zucchini, from 2 to 8 inches (5–20cm) in length, with smooth, unblemished skins. Very large zucchini can be tough and bitter. Zucchini are perishable and should be used promptly, but they can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Varieties
Zucchini is a variety of summer squash. The individual squash range in size from 2 inches (5 cm) to 2 feet (61cm) long. Baby zucchini is also available.
Nutrition Highlights
Zucchini (raw), 1 cup (sliced with skin) (113g)
Calories: 18
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrate: 4g
Total Fat: 0g
Fiber: 1g
*Excellent source of: Vitamin C (19.21mg)
*Good source of: Manganese (0.20mg), and Vitamin B6 (0.25mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.
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The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2009.