Are your gardens overflowing with zucchini?  This time of year this wonderful "vegetable" is flourishing.  Zucchini, a small summer squash, is botanically considered a fruit even though most people think of it as a vegetable.

 

These wonderful "fruit/vegetables" are very nutritious as well as tasty.  Zucchinis have a high water content (over 95%), high nutrient value and are very low in calories (25 calories in a medium-sized zucchini).  They are a perfect food for people who are trying to make healthy choices. 

 

Zucchini contains vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant.  It has anti-inflammatory properties, can provide protection against cardiovascular disease, and is good for the eyes.  Zucchini also contains folate, potassium, vitamin A, lutein, vitamin B6, riboflavin, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus. Magnesium and phosphorus are essential for building and maintaining healthy bones.  The rind of zucchini contains the nutrient beta-carotene, which is known to have antioxidant properties and help protect cells from becoming damaged.

 

Since zucchini is in its peak season, try slicing it for the grill, adding it to a pasta dish or cutting it up for a salad or veggie platter!