An A to Z guide to choosing, storing, preparing, and cooking fresh produce and recipe ingredients.
Ales Veluscek/Getty ImagesZucchini
The most popular summer squash, zucchini has a light, delicate flavor. Its blossoms are edible and often served stuffed.
Season: Year-round; peaks in summer.
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How to Choose Zucchini
Look for zucchini less than 8 inches long; they can become bitter, watery, and thicker-skinned as they grow larger. Make sure squash are firm, particularly at the stems, and have bright skins. -
How to Store Zucchini
Refrigerate, unwashed, in a plastic bag in the vegetable drawer for up to 5 days. -
How to Use Zucchini
A component of ratatouille, zucchini is also good grilled, roasted, steamed, pan-fried, or raw. It also adds a boost to sweet breads and muffins.
—Katrine AmesReal Simple Zucchini Recipes:
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How To: Slice Zucchini
Use a chef's knife to slice and chop fresh zucchini.
Find out what's in season in your area right now, then locate a farmers' market near you.
