benefits of zucchinis

Zucchinis can be available all around the year, but they are at their best during late spring and summer seasons. Zucchinis have anti oxidant value (Oxygen radical absorbance capacity ORAC) of 180 Trolex Equivalents (TE) per 100g, the value which is far below to some of the berries, and vegetables. Nonetheless, the pods are one of the common vegetables included in weight reduction and cholesterol control programs by the dieticians.

In the stores, choose small to medium sized zucchini featuring shiny, bright green skin, firm and heavy in hand. The best size for zucchini is 6 to 8 inches length and 2 inches or less in diameter. Some big sized varieties with marrow are specially grown for stuffing. Minor superficial scratches and mild bruises oftentimes seen on their surface but are perfectly fine.

Wash them thoroughly in cold, running water just before cooking. Sometimes the fruits may require light scrub at places where prickles or dirt attached firmly. Trim the neck and bases. Peeling of skin is not advised.

Zucchini blossoms are also an edible delicacy. In general, blossoms are picked up during morning hours when they are fresh and soft. To prepare, open up blossoms and carefully inspect for insects. Pull off any calyces attached firmly at the base.

Small varieties of zucchini are less bland and watery than others. Zucchini is usually cooked to make savoury dishes. It can also be eaten raw in the form of salads where it can be sliced and shredded in cold and hot salads.

Golden zucchini is a hybrid variety which is deep yellow or orange in colour. Zucchini in Hindi is known as

These are dense, heavy and almost seedless with a smooth surface. zucchini featuring shiny, bright green skin, firm and heavy in hand. The best size for zucchini is 6 to 8 inches length and 2 inches or less in diameter. Some big sized varieties with marrow are specially grown for stuffing. Minor superficial scratches and mild bruises oftentimes seen on their surface but are perfectly fine.

Commonly found in Mexico, their features are similar to the round variety except that they have a large oval shape. Zucchini blossoms are also an edible delicacy. In general, blossoms are picked up during morning hours when they are fresh and soft. To prepare, open up blossoms and carefully inspect for insects. Pull off any calyces attached firmly at the base.

Also known as

These are characterized by thick warty skin with markedly curved necks. They have a crunchy texture and a sweet delicate flavour. Furthermore, zucchinis, especially golden skin varieties, are rich in flavonoid poly phenolic antioxidants such as carotenes, lutein and zea xanthin. These compounds help scavenge harmful oxygen derived free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) from the body that play a role in aging and various disease processes.