WHAT IS A ZUCCHINI?

This green squash, while technically a fruit, is treated as a savory vegetable.  The name comes from either the Italian word “zucchino” (undeveloped marrow) or an abbreviation of the word for squash.  It’s been cultivated in Central America and Mexico for over 7,000 years.  This means that eating zucchini pre-dates the existence of writing.   When the Europeans were colonizing this region, seeds were sent back home to plant.  Then after World War I, Italian immigrants introduced zucchinis to the States.  Originally it was called green Italian squash.

WHY ARE ZUCCHINIS GOOD FOR YOU?

They are low in calories and fat but high in water and fiber.  Zucchini is also loaded with vitamins and minerals to the point where it’s called a nutrient dense food.  And this is in addition to the anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory phyto-nutrients present.  In general zucchini improves digestion, can help to slow down aging (anti-oxidants), lowers your blood sugar count, helps with heart and eye health as well as with losing weight.

WHEN ARE ZUCCHINIS IN SEASON?

This is a summer “vegetable” (fruit) that in the northern hemisphere is available June through August.  However most stores sell them throughout the year.

HOW SHOULD ZUCCHINIS BE STORED?

Do not cut or wash it.  Rather store the zucchini in your refrigerator in a plastic bag (loosely tied or perforated).  They should last for around 4 to 5 days.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COURGETTE, ZUCCHINI AND MARROW?

Zucchinis, marrows and courgettes are summer squashes from the same fruit family.  While all three can be green or yellow, the difference between them is size.  Courgettes are the name traditionally applied to small zucchinis (up to 5 inches or 14 cm in length).  Beyond that they are called zucchinis until they hit their full size.  Then they’re known as “marrows” and can be up to 3 feet in length.