Zucchini Zip

 Soon farmer's markets and backyard gardens are going to be overflowing with zucchini. This tasty veggie can be used in everything from an elegant ratatouille to  raw or grilled. There are some great recipes to appreciate this green gem even more.

Regular contributor  Ali Slagle wrote about this versatile veggie in today's New York Times Wednesday Food section. There is so many different ways to have it. Surprisingly it can be eaten raw. Fans can avoid the usual mushiness that unfortunately comes with cooked veggies. Think of it as a firmer cucumber and slicec it like one - into coins.For a prettier look cut in into batons or ribbons. Add a pinch of salt to mute the bitterness and bring out its' sweetness. Ms. Slagle suggests mixing it with feta or lemon and Parmesan for  a light summery taste. Another tasty idea is combining them with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella for a great side dish. It can also be used in place of pickles in a sandwich for crunch and flavor.Zucchini are perfect in sauces/ That mush turns to a caramelized jam making it perfect to meld with olive oil, cheeses and herbs. These sauces are perfect if there's an abundance of the squash. Usually two pounds of zucchini are used to make a sauce,Lemon can be added for brightness.A basil crop will come in handy too  since; ts a great flavoring for any veggie sauce.

Of course the best way to have them is as pancakes.They have a lighter and greener flavor than potatoes  which is perfect  for a hot weather meal. A good recipe is mucvar, the Turkish version.Eggs and flour are also added  a long with baking powder for lift. Feta crumbles are added a long with dill. Serve with a  cooling yogurt sauce that's rich with garlic. This is a great appetizer for an outdoor party.Ms. Slagle also recommends slicing the squash lengthwise.This creates thick batons which are perfect for grilling.Slather with miso ,flavored butters such as garlic or basil and then sprinkled with Parmesan.Zucchini is a perfect accompaniment when cooking meat. The veggie releases steam and keeps any meat from drying out. It s  a perfect add into any meatball or burger recipe (along with give both a good dose of green). Another good pairing is adding slices to any cooked tomato dish. It;s also a great sub in for eggplant when making ratatouille. It doesn't;t have that intense flavor and heaviness. It keeps the dish very light in flavor. 

Zucchinis are going to be in abundance soon enough. Have  them in salads and sauces. Try them in a crunchy crispy pancake. Enjoy them in ratatouille with a crusty French bread. They;'re all perfect thanks to this versatile squash.