Reading Time: 13 mins
1. What are Baby Zucchinis?
Baby zucchinis, also known as courgettes or zucchini squash, are a type of summer squash that are harvested when they are young and tender, usually around 4-6 inches in length. They have a delicate flavor, slightly sweet and nutty, making them a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Baby zucchinis are usually green, but they can also be found in yellow and light green varieties. Their small size and tender texture make them perfect for quick cooking methods like sautéing, grilling, and roasting.
Baby zucchinis are low in calories, with only around 17 calories per 100 grams, making them an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake or trying to lose weight. Baby zucchinis are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium. Baby zucchinis are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Fiber also helps you feel full longer, which can be beneficial for weight management. Baby zucchinis contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
2. Baby Zucchini Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
* 2 cups baby zucchinis, sliced
* 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (any color)
* 1 cup carrots, julienned
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
* 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Optional protein: tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef
Instructions:
1. Prep the ingredients: Wash and slice the baby zucchinis, bell peppers, carrots, and red onion. Cut the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic cloves. If using a protein source, prepare it by cutting into bite-sized pieces and seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Cook the vegetables: Add the red onion, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the baby zucchinis and continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender but still crisp.
4. Add the protein: If using a protein source, add it to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through. For tofu, cook until golden brown. For chicken, shrimp, or beef, cook until no longer pink in the middle.
5. Season the stir-fry: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and honey or sugar (if using). Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fried vegetables and protein, and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve: Taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the baby zucchini stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
3. Grilled Baby Zucchini with Herbs
Ingredients:
* 8-10 baby zucchinis, washed and halved lengthwise
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley, basil, or cilantro)
* Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with white ash.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Marinate the baby zucchinis: Place the halved baby zucchinis in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the zucchinis, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes, occasionally turning them to ensure even flavor absorption.
4. Grill the baby zucchinis: Remove the baby zucchinis from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the zucchinis on the preheated grill, cut side down. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Serve: Transfer the grilled baby zucchinis to a serving platter and sprinkle with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve them warm as a side dish or as part of a grilled vegetable salad.
4. Baby Zucchini and Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
* 2 cups baby zucchinis, thinly sliced
* 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
* 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped (optional)
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
* Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prep the vegetables: Wash and thinly slice the baby zucchinis. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Tear or chop the fresh basil leaves and, if using, the fresh mint leaves.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced baby zucchinis, halved tomatoes, sliced red onion, and fresh herbs. Gently toss the ingredients to evenly distribute the colors and flavors.
3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat the vegetables evenly. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Add the finishing touches: If using crumbled feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad just before serving. This adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the fresh flavors of the baby zucchini and tomato salad.
6. Serve: Enjoy the baby zucchini and tomato salad as a light and refreshing lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or as a colorful addition to your summer picnic or potluck.
5. Roasted Baby Zucchini with Parmesan
Ingredients:
* 8-10 baby zucchinis, washed and halved lengthwise
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the baby zucchinis: Wash the baby zucchinis and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Season the baby zucchinis: In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby zucchinis with olive oil, salt, and pepper. If using garlic powder and dried herbs, add them to the bowl and mix well to evenly coat the zucchinis.
4. Arrange the baby zucchinis on the baking sheet: Place the seasoned baby zucchinis on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer and not overcrowded, as this will help them roast evenly.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the baby zucchinis, covering the cut side of each zucchini.
6. Roast the baby zucchinis: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the baby zucchinis for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove the roasted baby zucchini with Parmesan from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as a tasty side dish alongside your favorite main course, or serve them on their own as a delicious and healthy snack.
6. Baby Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients:
* 2 cups grated baby zucchinis (about 6-8 baby zucchinis)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
* Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Grate the baby zucchinis: Wash the baby zucchinis and pat them dry with a paper towel. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment.
2. Drain the excess liquid: Place the grated zucchinis in a colander and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze the grated zucchinis with your hands or wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much liquid as possible.
3. Prepare the fritter batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained grated zucchinis, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, lightly beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix well to form a thick batter.
4. Heat the oil: In a large non-stick skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
5. Fry the fritters: Drop tablespoons of the zucchini batter into the hot oil, gently flattening each fritter with the back of the spoon. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the fritters to become soggy.
6. Drain the fritters: Once the fritters are cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve: Serve the baby zucchini fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, yogurt, or marinara sauce. Alternatively, enjoy them on their own as a tasty and satisfying snack.
7. Baby Zucchini and Chicken Skillet
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or basil (optional)
* 1 pound baby zucchinis, washed and halved lengthwise
* 1/2 cup diced onion
* 2 garlic cloves, minced
* 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs (if using). Mix well to evenly coat the chicken.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
4. Add the baby zucchinis: Place the halved baby zucchinis in the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender but still slightly firm.
5. Deglaze the skillet: Pour the chicken broth or white wine into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet: Add the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet, along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the tomatoes are softened.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove the baby zucchini and chicken skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve the dish over rice, pasta, or quinoa, or alongside a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
8. Baby Zucchini Pasta with Pesto
Ingredients:
* 12 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
* Salt, for pasta water
* 1 pound baby zucchinis, washed and sliced into thin rounds
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
* 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 2 garlic cloves, peeled
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Sauté the baby zucchinis: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced baby zucchinis, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and slightly golden.
3. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts or walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup olive oil, and garlic cloves. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the pasta, zucchinis, and pesto: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the baby zucchinis. Pour the pesto sauce over the pasta and zucchinis, and toss gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Garnish and serve: Transfer the baby zucchini pasta with pesto to a serving platter or individual plates. If desired, garnish with halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and additional flavor. Serve the dish warm or at room temperature with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side, if desired.
9. Baby Zucchini Stuffed with Ricotta
Ingredients:
* 8-10 baby zucchinis, washed
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
* 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives
* Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or sheet with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
2. Prepare the baby zucchinis: Cut off the stem ends of the baby zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh from the center of each zucchini half, creating a small cavity for the filling. Place the zucchini halves in the prepared baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the ricotta filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil or parsley, lemon zest, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine. If desired, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for additional flavor.
4. Fill the baby zucchinis: Using a small spoon, carefully stuff each zucchini half with the ricotta mixture, filling the cavity and slightly mounding the filling on top.
5. Optional breadcrumb topping: If desired, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs over the top of each stuffed zucchini half for added texture and crunch.
6. Bake the stuffed zucchinis: Drizzle the stuffed zucchinis with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is lightly golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove the baby zucchini stuffed with ricotta from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a side dish with your favorite main course.