It never fails, every summer I have an abundance of zucchini from my garden. And it’s a problem that I actually look forward to, since zucchini is one of my most-loved and most-used veggies of all time. I incorporate it into dinners often throughout the year, as well as soups, sides, and baked goods. Here’s a round of all the zucchini recipes on this site to make it easy to pick out a few to make at a time.
Main Dishes With Zucchini
Zucchini is one of my go-to veggies to incorporate into main dish recipes, from skillet dinners to casseroles. Not only is it budget friendly and nutritious, but it’s mild flavor makes it a great choice for adding more veggies without overpowering a dish.
Ground Beef and Zucchini Skillet
This is one of my favorite dinners to make when I want something wholesome without spending a lot of time or money. I love how the ground beef and zucchini come together in one skillet for a meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor in under 30 minutes.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Easy Zucchini Lasagna (No Noodles)
Whenever my family is craving lasagna but I want something lighter and faster, this recipe is the one I make. It has all the cheesy, comforting flavors I love, but it’s noodle-free, loaded with veggies, and comes together in just one pan.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Zucchini Boats
Dietitian Jess also looks forward to zucchini season because her family loves these stuffed zucchini boats. They’re hearty enough to be dinner on their own, and every bite is packed with savory filling, melty cheese, and fresh summer flavor. She uses the oven-baked method most often, but these boats also can be grilled zucchini boats.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is one I come back to again and again because Mediterranean and Greek flavors are a favorite in my household. This one-pan dinner is fresh, colorful, and incredibly easy to make. Plus I know I’m getting a protein- and veggie-packed dinner with roasted zucchini that requires very little cleanup.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Palo | Whole30
Easy Rigatoni
This is the kind of pasta dinner that Dietitian Jessie can count on when everyone in her house is hungry and she needs something satisfying in a hurry. She appreciates that it’s made in one pan and delivers a balanced meal with plenty of protein, veggies, and comforting pasta.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Greek Chicken And Orzo Skillet
Whenever I’m craving bright Mediterranean flavors, this skillet is at the top of my list. It’s loaded with colorful tender chicken pieces, vegetables, chickpeas, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and orzo pasta, for a sauteed zucchini recipe I look forward to enjoying as leftovers for lunch the next day. I garnish it with fresh basil or parsley and lemon zest to brighten all the flavors.
Egg Free | Gluten Free Option | Nut Free
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
This casserole is one of my favorite ways to satisfy a pizza craving while sneaking in lots of vegetables. It has all those familiar pizza flavors everyone loves, and I appreciate that it makes enough for dinner plus leftovers.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Easy Skillet Lasagna (With Noodles)
I love that this recipe gives me all the comfort of traditional lasagna without the layering or long bake time. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making it an easy weeknight meal that’s always a hit around my table.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Orange Pork And Veggies Stir-Fry
This is one of Jess’ go-to dinners when she needs something healthy on the table fast. She loves the sweet, savory, garlicky sauce, and it’s always satisfying knowing her family is getting plenty of vegetables along with a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and energizing carbs.
Egg Free | Dairy Free | Grain Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Buffalo Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Whenever our community manager, Molly, can’t decide between buffalo chicken and Mexican food, this recipe solves her problem. She loves how bold and cheesy it is, and the fact that it’s ready in about 30 minutes makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Chipotle Quinoa Casserole
This casserole is one of Jessie’s favorite ways to serve up a nourishing dinner that everyone in her family genuinely enjoys. The Tex-Mex flavors are always a hit, and she loves that it’s loaded with protein, vegetables, and leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Stuffed Peppers
Ana, the social coordinator here, puts a Southwest spin on classic stuffed bell peppers by seasoning the filling with taco spices instead of the usual Italian herbs. It’s a fun way to change things up, and every pepper is packed with bold flavor and wholesome ingredients.
Dairy Free Option | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Beef Skillet Enchiladas
Whenever I’m craving enchiladas but don’t have time to roll tortillas, this skillet dinner saves the day. I love that it delivers all those classic flavors in one pan while packing in lean beef, beans, corn, and veggies for a satisfying meal.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Vegetarian Tikka Masala
Jessie created this recipe to prove that a meatless dinner can still be incredibly hearty and full of flavor. The creamy, spiced tomato sauce is somewhat like rustic ratatouille, and she serves it with rice or warm naan to soak up every last bite.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain | Nut Free | Vegetarian
Healthy Taco Casserole
This is one of my most dependable dinners of all time, and when I make it, I know everyone will happily eat. This rice, bean, ground beef, and zucchini casserole comes together quickly with simple ingredients, and I love that it delivers all those comforting taco flavors in one easy casserole.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Turkey Zucchini Meatballs
These turkey zucchini meatballs are one of Jess’ favorite meal prep recipes because they’re easy to make and incredibly versatile. Seasoned perfectly with Italian seasoning, garlic, and red pepper flakes, these meatballs taste great served with marinara over pasta one night, then enjoy the leftovers with roasted vegetables or spaghetti squash later in the week.
Dairy Free Option | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Zucchini Pasta Carbonara with Shrimp
When I want something creamy and comforting that still feels light and low carb, this recipe is exactly what I’m craving. Think of it as pasta primavera without the pasta, where I swap in zucchini noodles to add extra veggies while the shrimp keeps it satisfying. It reminds me of the seasonal spiralized zucchini and shrimp dish from Noodles and Company.
Dairy Free Option | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Pizza-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
Molly says this is an ingenious way to enjoy pizza flavors while working more vegetables and fiber into her dinner. The spaghetti squash becomes the perfect base for all her favorite pizza toppings, making every bite cheesy, comforting, and surprisingly satisfying.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Baked Ziti
As one of my most popular recipes, this baked ziti is always a great choice for an easy homemade dinner that everyone will happily gather around. I love how simple it is to customize with extra vegetables or gluten-free pasta while still delivering all the cozy comfort of a classic baked pasta.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Greek Chicken Kebabs
These Greek chicken kebabs always remind me that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. I let the chicken soak up the bright marinade before grilling, then serving it alongside fresh vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Grilled Pork Kebabs
These grilled pork kebabs are one of Ana’s go-to meals to make during grilling season. Her boys love the combination of juicy pork, colorful vegetables, and the creamy peanut sauce that brings every bite together with sweet, savory flavor.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free
Soup Recipes With Zucchini
I’m often adding diced zucchini to soups and chili recipes. I find that, though it’s tender, it really holds its shape for long simmering times and provides a nice bite as well as more veggies and nutrients at the same time.
Taco Soup
This taco soup is one of those recipes Jessie turns to when she wants something hearty that’s also incredibly easy. Then she sets out lots of different toppings so everyone can customize their own bowl, and it’s just as convenient whether she makes it in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Turkey Chili
As soon as the weather starts to cool down, this turkey chili goes straight onto my meal plan. I really appreciate that it’s packed with vegetables, filling protein, and cozy flavors, and I almost always make a double batch so I can freeze some for busy nights.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Lasagna Soup
Jess created this clever take on lasagna, which features all the comforting flavors of the main dish but in a lighter, brothy meal. Not only is it clever, but it’s ultra convenient, too, being a meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes and always disappears fast.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Minestrone Soup
Molly loves making a big pot of minestrone because it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy a wide variety of vegetables in one meal. This bean, noodle, and zucchini soup is hearty, colorful, and satisfying on its own, and she appreciates how easy it is to adapt for the different dietary needs of those she’s serving.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Vegan
Instant Pot Lamb Curry
This lamb curry tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even though the Instant Pot does most of the work for me. I love how tender the lamb becomes and how the rich spices fill every bite with comforting flavors, especially served over rice or cauliflower rice.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Side Dishes With Zucchini
I love the following recipes because they showcase innovative ways to incorporate zucchini into meals. From my go-to pasta salad to warm and cold options, these sides and all delicious.
Italian Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is one of my favorite dishes to bring to cookouts, potlucks, and summer gatherings because it always disappears quickly. I love the combination of crisp vegetables, savory salami, mozzarella, and zesty dressing, and it pairs perfectly with anything coming off the grill.
Egg Free | Dairy Free Option | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Spicy Asian Zucchini Noodles
Whenever her garden is overflowing with zucchini, this is one of the first zucchini salad recipes Ana makes. She loves the bold, spicy sauce and crisp-tender zucchini noodles, making it a fresh side dish that’s just as good alongside grilled meats as it is on its own.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Paleo | Vegan | Vegetarian | Whole30
Air Fryer Zucchini
This air fryer zucchini is proof that simple ingredients can be incredibly delicious. It calls for fresh zucchini slices, a mist of olive oil or avocado oil, Parmesan, and simple seasonings. Molly created it as an easy side dish that turns out zucchini pieces that are crispy around the edges, tender in the middle, and packed with savory flavor in just a few minutes.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Zucchini Fritters
Every zucchini season, I find myself making these crispy fritters on repeat as a favorite summer side dish. They combine fresh grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. I love serving them as a side dish, snack, or light lunch topped with sour cream and paprika or my homemade tzatziki sauce.
Dairy Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free | Vegetarian
Roasted Zucchini and Quinoa Salad
This is one of those sides that Jessie makes when she wants to compose a meal that’s colorful, nourishing, and full of flavor. She often pairs it with grilled salmon, but the warm salad, which includes roasted sliced zucchini, onions, carrots, and rosemary, is also satisfying on its own.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free | Vegan | Vegetarian
Baked Goods With Zucchini
Shredded fresh zucchini makes a natural addition to so many types of baked goods, since it adds moisture, texture, and nutrition in such an easy way. These are my go-to zucchini recipes to serve for breakfasts and snacks.
Zucchini Breakfast Cookies
These breakfast cookies are one of Ana’s favorite meal prep recipes because they make busy mornings so much easier for her. They’re soft, chewy, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat while also packing in wholesome ingredients that keep her boys satisfied.
Dairy Free | Gluten Free Option | Vegetarian
Zucchini Oatmeal Cups
I almost always have a batch of these oatmeal cups tucked away for quick breakfasts and afternoon snacks. They’re easy to grab on the go, and I love that they sneak a serving of veggies into a recipe for my picky eaters.
Gluten Free | Vegetarian
Zucchini Bread
This zucchini bread is one of those recipes Ana looks forward to making every summer. It’s tender and moist and her secret ingredient (a little molasses) adds just the right amount of rich flavor that keeps everyone coming back for another slice. The walnuts are optional, but recommended.
Dairy Free | Gluten Free Option | Vegetarian
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins
These muffins are one of my best ways to use up extra zucchini during the summer months. I love that they’re naturally sweetened with banana, studded with chocolate chips, and made in just one bowl for an easy breakfast or snack.
Dairy Free | Gluten Free Option | Nut Free | Vegetarian
Double Chocolate Zucchini Muffins
When Jessie is craving chocolate, these muffins always hit the spot. She describes them as rich and fudgy while still being made with wholesome ingredients and less sugar. Think chocolate zucchini bread, but in muffin form. They’re the perfect balance between a treat and an everyday snack.
Dairy Free | Gluten Free Option | Nut Free | Vegetarian
Ham and Cheese Muffins
The shredded zucchini in these savory muffins is optional, but I never skip it. They’re one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts that are satisfying, portable, and packed with flavor. I warm one up on busy mornings or pairing two with fresh fruit for an easy lunch that keeps me full for hours.
Gluten Free | Nut Free
Health Benefits Of Zucchini
Fairly mild in flavor and extremely versatile, zucchini is also a nutrient-dense food, meaning it provides an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients at a low calorie exchange. Very similar to yellow squash, another type of summer squash, zucchini is:
- An excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K
- Rich in manganese, potassium, magnesium, and folate
- A good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber along with water to help aid digestion
Frequently Asked Questions
Zucchini squash is fairly neutral in flavor, meaning it pairs well with a wide variety of ingredients and seasonings. To enhance its taste, try pairing zucchini with herbs and spices, other vegetables, lemon juice, goat cheese, feta cheese, or proteins.
To prevent your zucchini from being watery, slice it, salt it generously with salt, and set it aside for 10-30 minutes. This will help draw out the excess moisture. Then pat it dry, or squeeze it with paper towels to remove even more moisture, and continue with the recipe.
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Thank you, thank you! I needed this!
Yayyyyyy!!! Glad we could help!
The Healthy Double Chocolate Zucchini Brownie recipe calls for whole wheat flour.
Hi Chandra! Thanks for the catch. We added a note that you can use Bobs Red Mill 1-to-1 gluten free flour to make them gluten-free.