Meatless Monday: 5 Ways to Use Zucchini

Ah, zucchini. This humble squash rarely gets the attention it deserves—but the truth is that zucchini can add nutrition and flavour to a variety of meals. Late summer is also peak zucchini season, so now’s the perfect time to use your zukes.

When it comes to choosing zucchini, size does matter. Pass over the largest options in favour of small to medium-sized zucchini, which are often more tender. Ripe zucchini should feel firm and have smooth, shiny skin.

1. Bake bread

You’ve probably baked banana bread, but how about zucchini bread? This subtle-tasting squash makes bread recipes healthier without impacting the taste. Just 1 cup (250 mL) of zucchini contains 35 percent of our recommended daily intake of vitamin C, as well as a range of essential minerals.

Start your day with fluffy Zucchini Ricotta Pancakes topped with maple syrup and your favourite berries. And for a super healthy treat, try these cocoa-flavoured Carrot Zucchini Squares.

2. Whip up a soup

Zucchini soup? Sure! Puréed zucchini adds substance to this tangy chilled soup, which is perfect for a warm September afternoon. Alternatively, kids and adults alike will appreciate this Grilled Tomato Gazpacho that uses a garden’s worth of veggies.

3. Make noodles

Zucchini noodles are a well-known—and easy—replacement for wheat-based noodles. Not only are they lighter than other pasta options, but raw vegetable noodles also speed up your dinner preparation. This Zucchini Pasta with Chunky Tomato Sauce should take no more than 30 minutes, as there’s little to do besides blending the sauce ingredients and peeling the zucchini.

4. Stuff it

Zucchini Boats make for a whimsical snack or side dish that tastes as great as it looks. Our version is stuffed with a Mediterranean-inspired brown rice salad, incorporating tasty tomatoes, chewy walnuts, and creamy melted cheese.

5. Get grilling

Grilled zucchini is smoky, flavourful, and slightly sweet—basically, it’s something you have to try. A Grilled Zucchini Salad is an easy way to dip your toes into grilling vegetables. If you’re ready to dive in headfirst, grill up these colourful, meal-worthy Tofu Vegetable Stacks.