2015 UPDATE: Got Zucchini? In June 17’s Seasonal Pantry, which you can read here, I offer help for keeping up with the zucchini harvest, which is already well underway. Recipes in the column include Romanesco Zucchini “Soufflés,” Zucchini Frittata with Avocado-Tomato Salad and a delicate Fresh Zucchini Salad. I also promised to post links to zucchini recipes from the archives, so here you go.
If you want small zucchini, harvest them before they grow too big. This sounds like common sense or even a “duh” moment but they grow so fast that within a few hours they can be too large. I think it is best to harvest zucchini early in the day, before you head out to work. If you don’t grow zucchini, show up early at your local farmers markets, as the smaller ones sell quickly. However, you shouldn’t be scared of large zucchini, a reaction that farmers say is quite common. Large zucchini are wonderful when used in the right recipe. And Romanesco Zucchini are best the bigger they are so don’t be put off by their size.
What are your favorite ways to enjoy summer’s most fecund vegetable? Please take a minute to share in the comment section.
2013 UPDATE: This week’s Seasonal Pantry talks about the abundance of zucchini this year and offers two recipes, Zucchini-Chorizo Tacos and Carbonara-Style Zucchini. You’ll find that column here.
Here are more favorite recipes from recent Seasonal Pantry archives.
Use medium sized zucchini or large Romanesco zucchini to make delicious noodles.
Chilled Zucchini Soup with Pesto
Zucchini Ribbons with Cherry Tomatoes
Grilled Eggplant & Zucchini Panini with Salsa Verde & Feta
Pappardelle with Green Beans, Zucchini Ribbons & Tomatoes
Risotto with Zucchini, Peppercorns & Basil
Zucchini & Sausage with Oven Polenta
Grilled Tuna with Summer Vegetables
Little Zucchini-Potato Gratins
