How to cook with zucchini this summer
In season from February to June, zucchini is one vegetable that is synonymous with summer. Make the most of the squash with these recipes that range from dips to pasta to salads.
Chai-Zucchini Bread
Put a spin on classic zucchini bread with the addition of chai. The aromatics and warmth of the tea make the flavors of this loaf pop. The best part is that you don't even need to peel the zucchini. Get the recipe here.
Green Zucchini Kimchi
Pickling and fermenting is a simple and quick way to preserve in-season produce. This riff on kimchi makes zucchini into a spicy pantry staple that you can cook with year-round. Use the kimchi to top tacos, grain bowls or eggs.
Grilled Vegetable Salad
Grilling the zucchini in this salad adds smokiness and depth. Pair it with cherry tomatoes, corn, cucumbers and burrata for a farmers' market on a plate. Find the recipe here.
Grilled Summer Squash and Halloumi Tacos
Not only is zucchini delicious, but it's also full of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and fiber. Use it in these vegetarian tacos that are made heartier with the addition of grilled halloumi cheese. Learn how to make the recipe here.
Vegetable Polenta
Got too much summer produce and don't know how to use it all? Polenta is the perfect blank canvas to display zucchini, tomatoes, corn and spinach. The buttery, creamy base adds richness to the fresh vegetables. Get the instructions here.
Grilled Vegetables with Burrata
Z'hug, a Yemeni hot sauce, packs a punch in this vegetable-forward dish. Break out the grill to get a nice char on the zucchini and sweet peppers. Serve the dish with grilled, crusty bread for a filling meal.
Summer Squash Skewers With Basil Dipping Sauce
Who said skewers have to include meat? These summer squash skewers celebrate in-season vegetables, including zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes and summer squash. The basil dipping sauce brings brightness and acidity to the dish. Learn how to make the meal here.
Garden Summer Rolls
If you're looking for an Instagram-worthy dish to cook, turn to these garden summer rolls. Not only is the rainbow of vegetables beautiful, but it also brings crunch and flavor. The Green Goddess tahini sauce is creamy, herbaceous and vegan. Get the recipe here.
Grilled Summer Vegetable Pasta
When it comes to vegetarian dishes, pasta is a standard vehicle, but this vegetable pasta is anything but boring. The addition of fennel, balsamic glaze, fresh herbs and Parmesan make this dish feel special.
Squash Baba Ghanoush
Baba ghanoush makes a great appetizer for any summer cookout. This version adds zucchini for a lighter texture. With only seven ingredients, this dip is a cinch to make.
Veggie and Ginger Smoothie
If you're trying to stay hydrated this summer, blend up this veggie and ginger smoothie. With zucchini, kale, banana and spinach, this powerhouse of a drink will leave you feeling refreshed. If you swap out the honey for agave, this smoothie is also vegan.
