We just got some zucchini in our CSA farm box this week, and I got so excited because for some reason zucchinis remind me of summer time. Well I guess they are a type of summer squash, so it makes sense :) My favorite way to prepare zucchini is by grilling them, but roasting and sauteing is also great! This recipe features grilled zucchini, leeks, and spring onions. It is super simple, but it’s delicious and pairs perfectly with grilled salmon or steak for a flavorful and fresh side dish. Give it a try at a summer BBQ and impress your friends!
Ready to be served!
Ingredients: (serves 4)
Prepping the veggies!
3 medium sized leeks
3 medium zucchini
1 bunch of spring onions (about 6)
1 garlic clove, finely grated
Zest and juice from 1 lemon
3-4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tbsp avocado oil
½ tsp dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Heat your grill to medium-high
Trim and halve leeks (lengthwise), and wash well
Cut zucchinis in half (lengthwise)
Add spring onions, zucchini, and leeks to a large mixing bowl. Add avocado oil, salt, and pepper and mix well.
In a small bowl, add lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Grill seasoned vegetables, turning every so often until slightly charred, for about 10 minutes (spring onions may need to be removed sooner)
Cut grilled veggies into bite size pieces, toss with vinaigrette.
Optional: top with toasted walnuts or pine nuts or torn mint leaves
Note: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or sauté in a sauce pan. Also, if you can’t find spring onion, try a red onion instead!
Health benefits of zucchini:
Zucchinis are a great source of antioxidants, but most are in the skin so be sure to keep the skin on!
They are high in vitamin C, which helps boost immune function.
They have many phytonutrients that aid in reducing inflammation, especially in the cardiovascular region and gastrointestinal tract.
They are easily digested because they contain a lot of water, so try having cooked zucchini when suffering from constipation or other gut discomfort.
Zucchinis are a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin (antioxidants), vitamin K, and magnesium, which can help improve bone health and strength.
Sources and additional reading:
https://draxe.com/zucchini-nutrition/
https://www.naturalfoodseries.com/9-zucchini-health-benefits/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/zucchini-benefits#section8
https://www.jenreviews.com/zucchini/
