Courgette, also known as Zucchini, is a summer squash fruit. Yes botanically its a fruit! But used as a vegetable. It occurs in several varieties, which range in colour from deep yellow to dark green. Its origins seem to be from the Americas and then later Italy. Not many of us are aware of its nutritional health benefits, which led me to write about it. I love the fact courgettes are so versatile, tasty and available all year around.
- Low in carbs and high in water which is great for balancing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss.
- Contains beneficial antioxidants such as Beta-carotene, vitamin A & C – great for healthy eyes, skin and lowering inflammation in the body.
- Also contains many minerals including the trace mineral called Manganese which keeps bone strong and healthy.
- High in fibre which helps bulk up the stool and helps digestion.
- Add it raw to salads.
- Stew it with other summer fruits and vegetables to make ratatouille.
- Stuff with rice, lentils, or other vegetables, then bake it.
- For a mild stir-fry, add olive oil and sauté it.
- Boil it, then blend it into soups.
- Serve it as a side, grilled or sautéed with a little garlic and oil.
- Spiralize it into spaghetti- or linguine-like noodles, or slice it to replace lasagna sheets.
- Bake it into breads, pancakes, muffins, or cakes.
