Every summer we have pounds and pounds of zucchini to use. The delicate flavor of zucchini makes it ideal for all manner of recipes, both savory and sweet. If you're left wondering what to do with an abundance of zucchini, try some of these great low fat options, from muffins to soup and plenty in between.
1. Healthy Zucchini Salad
Fiona Haynes
This is a very straightforward salad of thinly sliced zucchini drizzled with a lemon and olive oil dressing, and topped with fresh basil and freshly ground black pepper. A food processor or mandoline makes short work of the slicing.
2. Zucchini Quinoa Salad
Fiona Haynes
Chopped zucchini is a nice addition to this highly nutritious, multi-textured vegetarian quinoa- and chickpea-based salad.
3. Zucchini Soup
Fiona Haynes
When I have an abundance of a vegetable I know I can always make good soup with it. Zucchini soup is a perfect way to enjoy this vegetable as summer comes to its inevitable end.
4. Roasted Zucchini Rounds
Fiona Haynes
zucchini have a high water content, so you can draw out some of the water by sprinkling the zucchini rounds with a little salt, leaving them for a few minutes, then blotting them dry. Plus, the crunch really comes from the bread crumb topping, which complements the zucchini rather nicely.
5. Herbed Zucchini and Mushroom Frittata
Fiona Haynes
Enjoy this low fat Herbed Zucchini and Mushroom Frittata when you want to prepare a special breakfast or brunch dish. I use egg substitute to lower the amount of cholesterol, but you can also use a combination of whole eggs and egg whites if you prefer.
6. Carrot and Zucchini Soup
Fiona Haynes
Carrots and zucchini pair nicely to make a thick and creamy fall soup. Enjoy this hearty and fresh tasting soup with some whole grain bread and a green salad.
7. Zucchini Muffins
Fiona Haynes
A sprinkling of raisins and heart-healthy walnuts make these low fat muffins the zucchini equivalent of Morning Glory Muffins. Enjoy these wonderfully light and moist muffins with a low fat smoothie for a great start to your day.
8. Lemon Zucchini Bread
Fiona Haynes
One of my favorite quick breads is zucchini bread. This low fat version has a pleasing hint of lemon and nutmeg. The moistness comes from the zucchini and also from yogurt. But my youngest daughter would be horrified to know her new favorite "cake" had green vegetables in it.
9. Chicken and Zucchini Lasagna
Fiona Haynes
If you're looking for a lower-fat, all-round healthier version of lasagna, then this chicken and zucchini lasagna should fit the bill. Enjoy with a side of steamed green beans.
10. Roasted Zucchini and Tomato Sauce
Fiona Haynes
Add interest to your pasta sauce by roasting zucchini chunks and adding them to a marinara sauce for a delicious pasta supper. Alternatively, pour the sauce over slices of grilled or broiled polenta.
