You're On My List, Zucchini!

Growing up, my family didn't eat zucchini. My father, on the contrary, was a huge fan of cooked squash with onions. Squash was food my father could enjoy alone. I felt the same way about zucchini too.

I didn't become aware of zucchini until I moved to North Carolina. As a Japanese cuisine lover, I'm appreciative of the culture that has influenced the restaurant industry in the Piedmont Triad.

One night, I was out with friends and I asked her about the green fruit.

"They didn't serve sauteed zucchini back in Virginia?" my friend asked.

"No, Hampton Roads wasn't hip to the trend too much at the time," I replied.

"Well, try it. Typically, hibachi restaurants will serve your protein with rice as well as zucchini and onions," she says to bring me to the Triad's dining etiquette.

Though I'm not a fan of zucchini, I do enjoy researching foods, herbs, and spices I'm not familiar with. Sometimes, the research eases me into trying certain foods twice just knowing they're healthy for me.

Zucchini is a food that's on that list - and I'm amazed at my findings!

Here are a few tasty reasons why we all should have zucchini on our grocery lists or plant in our gardens.

Zucchini, known as summer squash, is part of the Cucurbitaceae plant family. Melons, spaghetti squash, and cucumbers are members of the same Cucurbitaceae plant family. The fruit grows with a dark green outer layer and grows in various colors ranging from deep yellow to dark green.

Zucchini can grow upwards to one meter long and grows year-round.

There are many opinions about zucchini's origin. Some sources say zucchini was first developed in 1800 in Italy. Origins of zucchini appeared as early as 7000 BCE in Mexico, where the fruit was part of their diet with beans, corn, and squash.

In folk medicine, zucchini was used as a remedy for colds and aches.

Perfectly packed with antioxidants.

Antioxidants promote boosting the immune system and cell recovery, as well as promote healthy skin and nails.

According to the USDA's National Nutrient Database, zucchini is highly packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Zucchini is packed with many antioxidants we need to live a balanced life. Antioxidants, like carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene are potent in zucchini. Vitamin A found in the summer fruit supports the vision and replenishes the immune system.

Studies show the two antioxidants, lutein, and zeaxanthin can improve the retina lowering the risks of macular degeneration. Both lower the risk of cataracts which leads to poor vision as well as combat free radicals.

Diets high in carotenoids can protect against cardiovascular diseases, including but not limited to heart disease, stroke, etc.

Both beta-carotene and vitamin C acts as an anti-inflammatory property reducing the risks of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Vitamin C found in zucchini assists the lining of the blood cells improves and combats clogged arteries.

Anti-inflammatory properties, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase are found in the skin of zucchini.

A godsend for your blood sugar.

Proactive eating habits can reduce blood sugar in various ways.

Adding zucchini to the grocery list can reduce blood sugar levels in people suffering from Type 2 diabetes.

The fiber in zucchini stabilizes the blood sugar. Fiber can help increase insulin sensitivity.

Pectin found in zucchini can decrease bad cholesterol levels.

Dive in!

Zucchini is low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat. Known as a summer fruit, it's packed with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and niacin.

The skin of zucchini is bitter, so be sure to wash away any waxes prior to eating or preparing for the dinner table.

Zucchini is ideal for various diet styles - keto, vegan, low-carb, paleo, etc.

Add zucchini to salads with a dash of Stella Bistro Foods Everything Sante Fe Bagel Sultry Spice to spruce up your lunch salad.

Zucchini is great grilled, sauteed, baked, or roasted - I love grilled zucchini.

Choose firm zucchini, slender with vivid green color. Avoid zucchini with wrinkles or soft spots.

You can store zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Frozen zucchini can be stored for up to a year.

What are your thoughts about the summer fruit?

Which recipes do you enjoy using zucchini?

Let's discuss it below!