Zucchini is a vegetable from the Cucurbitaceae family and the Cucurbita genus. It looks similar to a cucumber, but it is actually a type of squash. There are green and yellow varieties, and it has a crisp texture with a subtle sweetness. It is a versatile vegetable that can be stir-fried, grilled, simmered, or even eaten raw in salads.
In Europe, it is often used in ratatouille and is commonly added to grilled dishes or pasta. Lightly sautéing it enhances its umami flavor. In Japan, zucchini has grown in popularity over the past 20 years, especially in the summer, making it a widely enjoyed vegetable.
