Looking for a fun and tasty way to sneak more veggies into your kids’ meals? You’re in luck! Our roundup of 20 Delicious Kid-Friendly Zucchini Recipes is packed with easy, creative ideas that’ll have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds. From crispy zucchini fries to sweet zucchini muffins, these dishes are perfect for quick dinners or seasonal favorites. Let’s make mealtime exciting—keep reading for recipes your whole family will love!
Zucchini Pizza Bites
Kickstart your snack game with these zucchini pizza bites—perfect for when you’re craving something cheesy but want to keep it light. They’re a breeze to make and totally customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- A splash of olive oil
- A couple of pinches of salt
- 1/2 cup of your favorite pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- A handful of mini pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
- A sprinkle of dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the zucchini rounds on the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to help draw out moisture.
- Bake the zucchini for about 10 minutes until they’re just starting to soften but still hold their shape. Tip: Pat them dry with a paper towel after baking to prevent sogginess.
- Top each zucchini round with a teaspoon of pizza sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a few mini pepperoni slices. Feel free to get creative with other toppings!
- Pop them back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Tip: Broil for the last minute for extra crispiness.
- Finish with a sprinkle of dried oregano for that classic pizza flavor. Tip: Let them cool for a minute before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
These bites are wonderfully crisp on the edges with a gooey, cheesy center. Serve them on a platter for a party or pack them in a lunchbox for a fun twist on pizza day.
Cheesy Zucchini Tots
Sometimes, you just need a snack that’s both comforting and a little bit healthy. These cheesy zucchini tots are the perfect bite-sized treat for when that craving hits.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of grated zucchini (squeeze out the excess moisture with your hands)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for flavor)
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- 1 large egg (beaten, to bind everything together)
- A couple of pinches of salt (to bring out the flavors)
- A splash of olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet with that splash of olive oil.
- In a big bowl, mix the grated zucchini, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and salt until everything’s well combined. Tip: Squeezing the zucchini well prevents soggy tots.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a small tot. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, placing each tot on the greased baking sheet. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to keep the mixture from sticking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy on the outside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
Here’s the deal: these tots come out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist. Try serving them with a side of ranch or marinara for dipping, and watch them disappear.
Zucchini Banana Bread
Feeling like you’ve got more zucchini than you know what to do with? You’re not alone. This zucchini banana bread is your ticket to using up that garden bounty in the most delicious way possible.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- a pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 3/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- a splash of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1 1/2 cups of grated zucchini
- a handful of chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and mashed bananas.
- Fold in the grated zucchini and walnuts if you’re using them.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can make the bread tough.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: It’s easier to slice once it’s cooled.
This bread is wonderfully moist with a sweet banana flavor and a hint of freshness from the zucchini. Try it toasted with a smear of cream cheese for an extra special treat.
Zucchini Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Unbelievably easy and delicious, this zucchini pasta with tomato sauce is your go-to for a quick, healthy meal. You’ll love how the fresh flavors come together in just minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- A couple of cloves of garlic, minced
- A splash of olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- A handful of fresh basil, chopped
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Tip: Don’t let the garlic brown or it’ll turn bitter.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- While the sauce simmers, spiralize your zucchinis into noodles. Tip: If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler works too for wider noodles.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the pan with the tomato sauce. Toss gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but still has a bite. Tip: Overcooking will make them mushy.
- Stir in the chopped basil right before serving.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
The zucchini noodles soak up the tomato sauce beautifully, offering a light yet satisfying bite. Try topping with a poached egg for an extra protein boost.
Chocolate Zucchini Muffins
Just when you thought zucchini couldn’t get any more versatile, here comes a recipe that turns it into a sweet, chocolatey treat. These Chocolate Zucchini Muffins are the perfect way to sneak some veggies into your dessert, and trust me, you won’t even taste them.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of grated zucchini (squeeze out the excess water)
- 1 and 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- a splash of milk
- a couple of chocolate chips for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold the grated zucchini into the wet ingredients. Tip: Squeezing the zucchini removes excess moisture, preventing soggy muffins.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Add a splash of milk if the batter seems too thick.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolate hit.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: Don’t overbake; the muffins continue to cook a bit as they cool.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: They’re hardest to resist when still slightly warm.
Unbelievably moist and rich, these muffins have a deep chocolate flavor with a hint of sweetness. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or freeze for a quick breakfast on the go.
Zucchini Corn Fritters
Got a couple of zucchinis sitting in your fridge that you’re not sure what to do with? Let’s turn them into something crispy, golden, and utterly delicious—zucchini corn fritters. Perfect for a lazy brunch or a quick snack, these fritters are your new go-to.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- A splash of olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper, just enough to season
Instructions
- Start by squeezing the grated zucchini in a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible. This keeps your fritters from getting soggy.
- In a large bowl, mix the zucchini, corn, flour, eggs, Parmesan, and green onion. Season with salt and pepper. The batter should be thick but stirrable; if it’s too wet, add a bit more flour.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this—medium heat ensures they cook through without burning.
- Transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot for the best texture.
Out of the pan, these fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with sweet pops of corn. Try them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Zucchini Apple Muffins
Unbelievably moist and subtly sweet, these zucchini apple muffins are your new go-to for a quick breakfast or snack. You’ll love how the fresh zucchini keeps them tender, while the apple adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 cup of grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup of diced apple
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the egg, then mix in the oil and milk until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently stir in the grated zucchini and diced apple.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Zesty with a hint of cinnamon, these muffins are wonderfully moist thanks to the zucchini. Try them warm with a dab of butter or pack them for a picnic—they’re just as good at room temperature.
Zucchini Cheese Quesadillas
Let’s talk about zucchini cheese quesadillas—your new go-to for a quick, delicious meal that’s packed with veggies and ooey-gooey cheese. Perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- A couple of cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend works great)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- A splash of olive oil
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- A dash of garlic powder for that extra kick
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Throw in the thinly sliced zucchinis, seasoning them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes until they’re just soft. Tip: Don’t overcook them; you want a bit of crunch.
- Remove the zucchinis from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, place one tortilla down and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over half of it.
- Layer the cooked zucchinis on top of the cheese, then fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape. Tip: Press down gently with a spatula to help the quesadilla hold together.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Tip: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the tortilla before the cheese melts.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot.
Absolutely delightful, these quesadillas are crispy on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth cheesy and slightly crunchy zucchini filling. Try serving them with a side of salsa or sour cream for an extra flavor boost.
Zucchini Pancakes
Feeling like you need a quick, tasty way to use up that zucchini sitting in your fridge? These zucchini pancakes are your answer. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of grated zucchini (squeeze out the excess water)
- A couple of eggs
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- A splash of olive oil for frying
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by grating your zucchini. Then, squeeze out as much water as you can with your hands or a clean towel. This keeps your pancakes from getting soggy.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Mix in the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until everything’s well combined.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Wait until the oil’s hot but not smoking—this is key for that perfect golden crust.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden and crispy.
- Transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot for the best texture.
What makes these pancakes stand out is their crispy edges and soft centers, with the Parmesan adding a nice salty kick. Try serving them with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce on the side for an extra flavor boost.
Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
You won’t believe how these zucchini chocolate chip cookies sneak in a veggie while tasting like a sweet treat. Perfect for when you’re craving something indulgent but want to keep it kinda healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of grated zucchini (squeeze out the extra water)
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of softened butter
- 3/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything’s well combined.
- Stir in the grated zucchini. Tip: Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to keep the cookies from getting soggy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips. Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Tip: They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Kick back and enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk. The zucchini keeps them moist, while the chocolate chips make every bite a little decadent. Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Zucchini Carrot Muffins
Just when you think muffins can’t get any better, along comes this combo of zucchini and carrot to prove you wrong. Perfect for sneaking in some veggies, these muffins are a hit any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- A splash of vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of grated zucchini
- 1 cup of grated carrot
- A handful of walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the egg, then mix in the vanilla and oil.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently stir in the zucchini and carrot, then the walnuts if you’re using them.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Tip: Check at 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Tip: They’re easier to remove when slightly cooled.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature. Tip: A dab of cream cheese takes these to the next level.
Fresh out of the oven, these muffins are moist with a hint of spice and sweetness. Try them toasted with a smear of butter for an extra cozy treat.
Zucchini Spinach Grilled Cheese
Think you’ve tried every grilled cheese out there? This zucchini spinach version is about to change your game. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with greens for a twist you’ll love.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- a couple of slices of cheddar cheese
- a handful of fresh spinach
- half a zucchini, thinly sliced
- a tablespoon of butter
- a splash of olive oil
- a pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the zucchini slices and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes until they’re just starting to soften. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to get those nice golden edges.
- Push the zucchini to one side of the pan. Add the spinach and a pinch of pepper. Stir for about a minute until the spinach wilts. Remove everything from the pan and set aside.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, butter side down, in the pan. Layer on the cheese, then the zucchini and spinach, and top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
- Cook on medium-low heat for about 4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula. Tip: Cover the pan with a lid for a minute to help the cheese melt faster without burning the bread.
- When both sides are golden brown and the cheese is gooey, remove from the pan. Let it sit for a minute before cutting. Tip: This rest time makes the cheese set a bit so it doesn’t ooze out everywhere when you bite in.
With its crispy exterior and melty, veggie-packed middle, this grilled cheese is a hearty upgrade. Try dipping it in a little marinara for an extra flavor kick.
Zucchini Brownies
Very few things beat the combo of chocolate and zucchini, especially when it turns into something as delicious as these brownies. You’re going to love how moist and rich they are, with a sneaky veggie boost that makes you feel a bit better about indulging.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 2 cups of shredded zucchini
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the oil, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Stir in the shredded zucchini until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Out of the oven, these brownies are incredibly fudgy with a deep chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the subtle freshness of zucchini. Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
You’ve probably got a zucchini or two sitting in your fridge right now, begging to be turned into something delicious. Let’s roll them up into a lasagna that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- A pinch of salt and a grind of black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grab a baking dish that’ll fit all your zucchini rolls snugly.
- Lay out your zucchini strips on a clean towel, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and half the basil until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
- Take a zucchini strip, spoon a tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto one end, and roll it up. Place seam side down in the dish. Repeat with all strips.
- Pour the remaining marinara over the rolls, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake for 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving, topped with the rest of the basil.
Cheesy, herby, and with just the right amount of bite from the zucchini, these rolls are a hit. Try serving them with a crisp salad for a light, satisfying meal.
Zucchini Hummus Wrap
Mmm, you’re going to love this zucchini hummus wrap—it’s fresh, easy to whip up, and perfect for those days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 cup of your favorite hummus
- a couple of whole wheat tortillas
- a splash of olive oil
- a handful of baby spinach
- a sprinkle of salt and pepper
- a dash of lemon juice
Instructions
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out the excess water with your hands—this keeps your wrap from getting soggy.
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then toss in the grated zucchini. Cook for about 3 minutes, just until it’s slightly softened.
- Spread a generous layer of hummus on each tortilla, leaving a little border around the edges.
- Layer the cooked zucchini and a handful of baby spinach on top of the hummus.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon juice for that extra zing.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to keep all the good stuff inside.
- If you’re feeling fancy, give the wraps a quick press in a panini press for a minute or two to get them crispy.
Just like that, you’ve got a wrap that’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Try slicing it in half diagonally for a pretty presentation, or pack it whole for an on-the-go lunch that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Zucchini Oatmeal Cookies
These zucchini oatmeal cookies are the perfect way to sneak some veggies into your dessert. They’re soft, chewy, and just sweet enough to satisfy your cookie cravings without feeling guilty.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of grated zucchini (squeeze out the excess water)
- 1 cup of old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 egg
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- A couple of dashes of cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the grated zucchini, oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon until well combined. Tip: Squeezing the zucchini well prevents the cookies from being too wet.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Tip: Wet your fingers slightly to press down the dough balls for even cookies.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Tip: Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these cookies warm for a gooey center or let them cool for a firmer texture. They’re great with a glass of milk or crumbled over yogurt for breakfast.
Zucchini Tomato Soup
You know those days when you crave something light yet comforting? This zucchini tomato soup is your go-to, blending fresh veggies into a smooth, flavorful bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- A splash of olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- A couple of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper, just enough to season
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Tip: Let the oil warm up for a minute to avoid sticking.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Toss in the zucchinis and tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer for 20 minutes. Tip: Cover the pot to keep all the flavors in.
- Once the veggies are tender, blend the soup until smooth. Use an immersion blender for ease, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Stir in the torn basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
Just imagine dipping a crusty piece of bread into this velvety soup, the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of zucchini dancing in every spoonful. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Zucchini Blueberry Muffins
Got a bunch of zucchini and blueberries lying around? You’re in luck because these zucchini blueberry muffins are the perfect way to use them up. They’re moist, slightly sweet, and packed with flavors that’ll make your morning coffee even better.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups of grated zucchini
- 1 cup of fresh blueberries
- A splash of milk (if needed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix the oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Tip: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother mix.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Gently stir in the grated zucchini and blueberries. If the batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Tip: An ice cream scoop makes this step mess-free.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Here’s the deal: these muffins are incredibly moist thanks to the zucchini, with bursts of juicy blueberries in every bite. Try serving them warm with a dab of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra treat.
Zucchini Chicken Nuggets
Oh, you’re going to love these zucchini chicken nuggets! They’re crispy, juicy, and packed with hidden veggies—perfect for picky eaters or anyone craving a healthier twist on classic nuggets.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of shredded zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 pound of ground chicken
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- 1 egg
- A couple of tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
- A splash of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Squeeze the shredded zucchini in a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible—this keeps the nuggets from getting soggy.
- In a large bowl, mix the zucchini, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into nugget-sized pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each nugget with olive oil for that golden, crispy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving—they’ll firm up a bit more.
These nuggets come out with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a tender, flavorful center. Try dipping them in a spicy mayo or serving them over a salad for a fun, protein-packed meal.
Zucchini Smoothie Bowl
Just when you thought zucchini couldn’t get any more versatile, here’s a smoothie bowl that’ll change your breakfast game. It’s creamy, refreshing, and packed with nutrients to kickstart your day.
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 frozen banana
- A splash of almond milk (about 1/4 cup)
- A couple of ice cubes
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- A drizzle of honey (about 1 tbsp)
- A pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Grab your blender and toss in the chopped zucchini and frozen banana.
- Add a splash of almond milk to help everything blend smoothly.
- Throw in a couple of ice cubes for that extra chill factor.
- Spoon in the almond butter for a creamy texture and a nutty flavor.
- Drizzle honey over the top for a touch of sweetness.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon in there for a warm spice note.
- Blend on high for about 30 seconds, or until everything is smooth and well combined. If it’s too thick, add a bit more almond milk.
- Pour the smoothie into a bowl and get creative with your toppings. Think sliced fruits, granola, or a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Blending zucchini into your smoothie bowl not only adds a creamy texture but also sneaks in some extra veggies. The almond butter and honey bring a sweet and nutty flavor that’s downright addictive. Serve it with a side of toasted bread for a hearty breakfast or enjoy it as is for a light, refreshing meal.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious, kid-friendly zucchini recipes makes mealtime easier and more exciting for your family! From sneaky snacks to hearty mains, there’s something for every picky eater. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for more kitchen inspiration. Happy cooking!