Vegetable

Zucchini

Zucchini (courgette; Cucurbita pepo) is a summer squash harvested immature—thin edible skin, pale moist flesh, and tiny soft seeds. Flavour is mild and green; larger “marrows” grow watery and seedy. Colours include dark green, pale green, yellow, and striped; flowers are a separate delicacy for stuffing and frying. Closely related to other summer squashes but shaped cylindrical for easy slicing. Grill, roast, sauté, spiralise, stuff, bake into breads, or eat raw when very young. Salt and drain grated flesh for fritters to reduce water. High heat and browning build flavour that steaming alone does not. Flowers need same-day use; fruit keeps a few days refrigerated. Peak summer glut invites pickles, ratatouille, and preserves.

Also known as: Courgette, Marrow