G’day mates! We’re often asked about the calorie content of different foods. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at one of my favourite veggies – zucchini!
The Lowdown on Zucchini Calories
So, just how many calories are in zucchini? Well, a medium-sized zucchini (around 196 grams) contains only about 33 calories. That’s pretty impressive when you consider how filling and nutritious this veggie is!
Zucchini Nutrition Facts
Zucchini is packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their health. Here are some of the key nutrition facts:
Vitamin C: One medium zucchini contains around 35% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. This antioxidant vitamin is essential for a healthy immune system and can help protect against diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Vitamin A: Zucchini is also a good source of vitamin A, with one medium zucchini providing around 10% of your daily recommended intake. Vitamin A is important for healthy vision and skin.
Potassium: Zucchini is a great source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
Fiber: With around 2 grams of fiber per medium zucchini, this veggie can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. Plus, fiber is important for digestive health.
How to Cook Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile veggie that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some of my favourite methods:
Grilled: Slice the zucchini into rounds or lengthwise strips, brush with a little olive oil, and grill for a few minutes on each side. The charred flavour is amazing!
Baked: Cut the zucchini into wedges or rounds, toss with some herbs and spices, and bake in the oven until tender. Perfect as a side dish!
Sautéed: Slice the zucchini thinly and sauté in a little butter or olive oil until golden brown. Add garlic or chilli for extra flavour!
Zucchini FAQs
Is zucchini good for weight loss?
Absolutely! Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, which means it can help keep you feeling full and satisfied while also supporting weight loss goals.
Can you eat zucchini raw?
Definitely! Raw zucchini can be sliced thinly and added to salads, or used as a dipper for hummus or tzatziki. Yum!
Is zucchini a fruit or a vegetable?
Technically, zucchini is a fruit because it develops from a flower and contains seeds. However, in cooking and nutrition, it’s considered a vegetable because of its savoury flavour and low sugar.
