Zucchini, also known as bush pumpkin, zucchini trunk or zucchini,is a vegetable of important economic value, being highly consumed in various parts of our country. One of the biggest zucchini producers here is the state of São Paulo.
→ Taxonomic classification of zucchini
Zucchini is a species belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae, the pumpkin family. In addition to pumpkins, they are part of this family: watermelon, melon, cucumber and chayote. Zucchini is part of the genus cucubite, a genus native to the American continent, and its scientific name is Cucurbita pepo.
Read too: Pumpkin
→ Zucchini Characteristics
Zucchini is an erect-growing annual plant that presents herbaceous stem and cut sheets which have white spots at the angles of the ribs. your flowers are yellow, and the plant presents female and male flowers. The flowers of these plants are pollinated by bees.
Zucchini flower is yellowish and pollinated by bees.
Zucchini is mainly known for its characteristic fruit, which is marketed still immature. It stands out for its
cylindrical shape and coloringIt is usually light green with dark green streaks. It is noteworthy that the colors of the fruit are varied, ranging from very light green to medium green with darker stripes. Seeds are smooth and elliptical.Zucchini is a plant that develops best in regions with temperatures between 18°C and 35°C and dry weather. The relative humidity of the air must be medium for the development of this plant, with the optimum humidity being between 40% and 50%. Its cultivation occurs, preferably, in summer and spring, and can be produced in autumn and winter in protected environments (the plant is sensitive to frost). The harvest usually takes place between 45 and 60 days after planting.
See below a table with the best times for planting, according to the Brazilian Catalog of Vegetables, by Embrapa Vegetables and Sebrae:
Recommended time for planting by region | |||||
Species |
South |
Southeast |
North East |
Midwest |
North |
italian zucchini |
Sept./May |
Aug./May |
Mar./Oct. |
All year |
Apr./Aug. |
→ Benefits of consuming zucchini
The zucchini fruit stands out for being an important source offibers, in mineral salts - like calcium, phosphor and iron — and vitamins — especially the Complex B vitamins and the vitamin A. Niacin (B3), for example, is found in large amounts and is related to the reduction of triglyceride and cholesterol levels, in addition to helping with proper functioning of nervous system and immune. In addition, its fruits are characterized by their easy digestion and by helping the intestines to function properly. The seeds of this species have a high zinc content, which is related to the prevention of benign prostatic hyperplasia. At seeds also work as protein supplement.
Read too: Recommendations for healthy eating
→ zucchini preparation
O fruit of the zucchini, which is sold still immature, is a lot sensitiveTherefore, at the time of purchase, care must be taken when handling it, as injuries to the fruit lead to faster rotting of that portion. When choosing among the fruits, always prefer those that are firmer and with a shiny skin. Avoid choosing zucchini with dark or soft parts. After purchase, keep the zucchini in the refrigerator for a maximum of five days.
Zucchini can be consumed in different ways, for example, braised.
Zucchini can be prepared in different ways, and it is possible to consume it in nature, braised, fried or boiled. Among the dishes that can be prepared with zucchini, salads and stir-fries stand out. A popular recipe today is zucchini spaghetti, in which the fruit, sliced in slices thin, replaces pasta, being a suggestion for those looking for a less caloric. In addition to the fruit, zucchini seeds can be consumed. These vegetable structures draw attention for their large amount of protein and can be consumed on toast.
→ Types of zucchini
In addition to the Italian zucchini, discussed in this text, the “Brazilian zucchini” is sold in Brazil. THE difference between these two types of zucchini is in the Format. The Italian zucchini has an elongated fruit, while the Brazilian has a fruit with a kind of neck.
By Ma. Vanessa Sardinha dos Santos
