These are the best zucchini recipes to prepare on hot summer days.
Zucchini holds a prominent place in Spanish cuisine. This bright green vegetable adds flavor, texture, and color to many of our most beloved dishes. However, with the arrival of summer , we run the risk of abandoning good eating habits as we eat more ice cream, fried foods, and foods of low nutritional quality.
It's a very versatile ingredient in the kitchen, able to adapt to both traditional and new recipes. Its smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor allow for many combinations, transforming everyday dishes into delicious experiences.
To prevent you from reaching September with a few extra pounds, we present a series of options where, whether raw, roasted, or stuffed, zucchini will be your best ally during these summer days.
Cold recipes with zucchini for summer
As a starter, you can prepare a delicious raw zucchini salad with a citrus vinaigrette. Simply slice the vegetables thinly (best done with a mandoline), add a little lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and orange zest. You can also top the mixture with toasted pine nuts or flaked almonds.
Another easy and delicious alternative is zucchini rolls with cheese and basil. Slice the zucchini into thin strips, blanch them for a minute in a pan to soften them, then simply fill them with a cream cheese and basil mixture and roll them up. They make a perfect starter.
A zucchini carpaccio with Parmesan cheese and mint is perfect for cooling off during the summer. To make it, place slices of raw zucchini on a plate, sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh mint leaves , and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Stuffed zucchini
If you want a hearty meal but don't want to spend too much time preparing it, you can make zucchini stuffed with tomato and tuna. Simply scoop out the zucchini, fill it with a tuna and tomato mixture , and top it with a little grated cheese . To finish , microwave them for 5 to 7 minutes.
This recipe can also be made vegan by substituting the filling with a mixture of cooked quinoa, sautéed peppers, onion, and spices. Stuff the zucchini and steam or microwave.
Grilled or sautéed zucchini
For a light and simple preparation, this quick sautéed zucchini with garlic and parsley is ideal. Cut the vegetable into half-moons, then sauté it in a hot pan with a little chopped garlic, parsley, and a touch of lemon. It'll be ready in 5 minutes.
You can also prepare it with egg in a pan without oil. Cook the zucchini in its own juices over medium heat, add a beaten egg, and stir until set. A very easy alternative.
Tips for preserving zucchini in summerThe most common problem we usually encounter with zucchini during the summer is that it releases a lot of water. To avoid this , lightly salt it before cooking, then let it soak for 10 minutes and pat it dry with absorbent paper.
And if you're wondering , raw or cooked zucchini for summer? The answer depends on your goal. If you're looking to create fresh recipes , the raw version is your best bet, but if you're looking for light preparations like stuffing or stir-fries, the cooked option is perfect.
As an additional recommendation, there are other ingredients such as corn, natural yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, or soft cheeses that combine perfectly with zucchini during the summer.
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