Spoiler alert: your skin may thank you.
True to these stereotypes, zucchini is, in fact, in season in the summertime.
Their peak harvesting months are May through August.
Photo:Adobe Stock
Zucchini was first cultivated from squash in Mesoamerica more than 7,000 years ago.
From stir-fries and cookies to casseroles and zucchini fries, theres no shortage of tasty zucchini dishes.
An even bigger bonus?
These veggies are an excellent addition to anutritious dietthanks to their fiber, water, and micronutrient content.
So, really, with a vegetable so versatileand so healthycan you ever have too much zucchini?
Some include:
Do you better Peel a Zucchini First?
You definitely dont need to remove the skin from zucchini before eating.
It also offers a number of potential health benefits.
Here are just a few of the ways you may benefit from eating zucchini.
Getting plenty ofdietary fiberis essential for a healthy gut microbiome.
Among them are multiple antioxidants linked to eye health, includingvitamin C, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, a nutrient known for supporting healthy vision.
Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the retina, where they help absorb light and protect the retina from damage.
And zucchini is full of all of these goodies.
Adds to Hydration
That 95% water we mentioned?
Its kind of a big deal forstaying hydrated.
One cup contains about 9% of your daily potassium needs.
Consuming adequate potassium can help control high blood pressure, lowering your risk of heart problems.
Ripe, high-quality zucchini should be firm to the touch, but not rock-hard.
Look for veggies without browning or soft spotsbut if you see some scratchy-looking scuff marks, thats OK.
These are normal markings from the zucchini’s time growing on the ground.
As for whether to buy organic or conventional, the decision is up to you.
Plus, research indicates that there are no definitive long-term health benefits of choosing organic produce over conventional.
How to Enjoy Zucchini
There are so many ways to enjoy zucchini.
This veggie fits into recipes from A to Z.
Try it in any of the following preparations.
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USDA, FoodData Central.Squash, summer, zucchini, includes skin, raw.
2020;9(11):1046. doi:10.3390/antiox9111046
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.How much water do you need?
Harvard Health.Fruits and vegetables for heart health: More is better.
2013;2013:1-11. doi:10.1155/2013/782137
American Heart Association.How Potassium Can Help Control High Blood Pressure.
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