New Confession- zucchini is running out of my ears! Yes, it’s true, my life isn’t all about chocolate. I know its a shock but there are a lot of hours in a day and plenty of time for many things, including gardening. So I built a garden, a nice one and stuff totally grew! Especially zucchini. Good thing I really like zucchini and it’s so versatile. NEWS FLASH- “You can totally eat zucchini raw and it’s delicious!” Eat it plain or dip it in your favorite hummus. Grate it or chop it into your salad. I once went to a raw food workshop were they used a gadget called a spiralizer to magically cut a zuc into noodles for a spaghetti dish and it was phenomenal.
Health Benefits!
Zucchini is not only easy to grow, versatile and delicious, it’s a nutritional powerhouse! But remember most of the good stuff is found in the skin so no peeling. These bad boys not only contain the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure they can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Not to mention prevent disease AND support a healthy immune system. Other benefits include protein for energy and fiber which aids in digestion. Fiber also helps to bond key vitamins and minerals for optimal nutritional delivery. This is especially useful since zucchini are loaded with vitamin C and also contain valuable vitamins B-6, A and K. I think the coolest thing I found in all my research is the inclusion of the trace mineral manganese, which helps the body to metabolize protein and carbs. It is also essential in amino acid production that allows the forming of collagen, creating healthy skin and wound healing.
Let’s not forget hydration, one of the most important factors in our health. Zucchini is mostly water, like 95%. This also means its low in calories. One whole medium zuc, (196g) is only 33 calories. So load up and feel good about it!
In honor of all this zucchini brain I’m going to put my recent kitchen madness out there.
Zucchini. Seven Days. Seven Ways.
Get ready!