ByAgkidzone StaffUpdated: Sep 25, 2024
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Zucchini is a powerhouse veggie packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, perfect for keeping you healthy and energized during the warm summer months. Plus, zucchini plants usually produce abundant harvests each summer, making it one of the most budget-friendly vegetables out there!
This versatile squash shines in countless dishes. Whether you're baking sweet cakes or tossing savory pasta, zucchini offers endless possibilities in the kitchen.
Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie
Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie is a breeze to prepare and ideal for a light, satisfying lunch. It blends all the delightful flavors of summer into a healthy, gluten-free, cheesy quiche that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Here’s how to make it:
- In a skillet, melt some butter and sauté half a yellow onion, two large zucchinis, two cups of sweet corn, and eight ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms until they're tender. Then, take the pan off the heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together four eggs and half a teaspoon of salt. Mix in 12 ounces of shredded mozzarella, one tablespoon of dried oregano, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil.
- Add the cooked vegetables to the egg mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into a greased pie pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
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Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is one of the simplest and tastiest ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. It makes a great appetizer with an aioli dipping sauce or a hearty side dish. Whether paired with red meat, chicken, or fish, it can even add a savory touch to a green salad.
- Take a large zucchini and cut it into thick coins.
- Layer the slices on a greased baking tray. Sprinkle generously with good-quality parmesan cheese, garlic salt, thyme, and black pepper.
- Place in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
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Grilled Zucchini with Garlic and Herb Sauce
Fresh, seasonal, and crisp, Grilled Zucchini with Garlic and Herb Sauce is set to become a summer favorite. This recipe is quick, taking less than 15 minutes to whip up, but for even more flavor, you can marinate the zucchini a few hours ahead.
- In a glass bowl, whisk together four tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with ¼ cup chopped shallots, two cloves of minced garlic, two tablespoons each of chopped fresh rosemary and parsley, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
- Cut a large zucchini into thick round slices and brush them generously with the herb sauce.
- Place the zucchini on the grill and cook until charred on both sides. Before serving, drizzle with a bit more of the herb sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
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Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a hit with both kids and adults! Serve them on their own or pair with a side salad for a complete, healthy meal.
To Make Stuffed Zucchini Boats:
- Take two large zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the middle and parboil the halves until they’re slightly tender.
- In a large pot, sauté onion and minced garlic in oil. Add one pound of mild Italian sausage (casings removed) and cook until the meat crumbles and browns. Stir in two cups of your favorite marinara sauce, half a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the zucchini halves in a glass baking tray and fill each with the sausage sauce. Top with shredded cheese and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Chocolate Zucchini Bread might sound unusual, but it’s a sweet, moist, and chocolatey treat where zucchini seamlessly blends in. Surprisingly, no one will guess there are veggies in this delicious loaf!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a glass mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder, one teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, one teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together one egg with ¼ cup applesauce, ¼ cup plain yogurt, and ½ cup brown sugar. Stir in one cup of grated zucchini.
- Pour the zucchini mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Fold in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini Fritters are a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your family's meals. These tasty, lightly fried bites are not only addictive but also a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, they're sure to become a family favorite in no time.
- Start by grating two medium zucchinis. Spread them out on a large tea towel and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about twenty minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, fold the towel and wring out any remaining water from the zucchini.
- In a large bowl, combine one large egg, ¼ cup of chopped chives, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Add the grated zucchini to the mixture and stir until well blended.
- Heat ¼ cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry the fritters on both sides until they're golden brown and crispy, usually about 3 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, place the fritters on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.

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Zoodles Bolognese
Looking to cut down on carbs without sacrificing flavor? Zoodles Bolognese is your go-to dish! This recipe combines the classic richness of bolognese sauce with the light, fresh texture of zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles.
- Begin by sautéing a chopped yellow onion, one diced carrot, one stalk of celery, and two cloves of minced garlic in olive oil until they're soft and fragrant. Add one pound of ground beef and cook until it's browned and crumbly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Using a spiralizer or a sharp knife, slice a large zucchini into long, flat noodles resembling tagliatelle or pappardelle. If you prefer softer noodles, you can steam them until they're tender. Alternatively, you can spoon the bolognese sauce directly over the raw zoodles for a bit of crunch.
- Plate the zoodles and generously top them with the hearty bolognese sauce. Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and serve hot for a comforting meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.

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Zucchini Lasagna
For those who crave the comforting layers of lasagna but want a healthier twist, Zucchini Lasagna is the perfect solution. By using zucchini slices instead of traditional pasta noodles, you can enjoy a low-carb version that's just as delicious.
- Slice a large zucchini into thin, wide sheets to mimic lasagna noodles. Sprinkle the slices with a little salt and let them sit for about ten minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent a watery lasagna.
- In a saucepan, melt equal parts butter and flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add grated cheese and a couple of bay leaves, then simmer the sauce on low heat until it thickens and becomes creamy.
- In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, minced garlic, oregano, basil, a splash of red wine, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Let the sauce simmer to develop rich flavors.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a glass baking dish. Add a layer of zucchini noodles, followed by a generous spoonful of béchamel sauce, and then another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of grated cheese.
- Place the assembled lasagna in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake until the noodles are tender and the cheese on top is beautifully browned and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set.

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Baked Zucchini Coins
Baked Zucchini Coins are incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor. These roasted slices make a perfect side dish for any meal and can be prepared ahead of time, then baked just before dinner for maximum crispiness.
- Cut a large zucchini into thick, round coins, about half an inch thick.
- Prepare the Breading: In a small bowl, whisk together two large eggs. In another dish, place Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then press it into the breadcrumbs until well covered.
- Place the breaded zucchini coins on a greased baking tray. Once all slices are prepared, spray them lightly with cooking oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the zucchini coins for about 20 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Enjoy these crunchy delights with your favorite dipping sauce, whether it's marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
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Lemon and Thyme Zucchini Chicken
For a zesty and aromatic dinner, Lemon and Thyme Zucchini Chicken brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the earthy notes of thyme to complement both chicken and zucchini beautifully.
- In a small bowl, combine fresh thyme with the zest and juice of two lemons. Coat your chicken cutlets generously with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, sauté cubed zucchini with two cloves of minced garlic in a skillet until they're tender. Add one tablespoon of fresh thyme, along with the zest and juice of one lemon, to enhance the flavors.
- Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer gently until the zucchini is fully cooked and infused with the lemon-thyme goodness.
- In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Fry the marinated chicken cutlets until they're golden brown on both sides and cooked through, ensuring they remain juicy and flavorful.

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