Food & Drink

The Best Zucchini Recipes to Make for Family Dinners

written by BRETT NICOLE HAYDEN
Source: Cooking Classy and Kristine's Kitchen
Source: Cooking Classy and Kristine's Kitchen

One of my favorite parts of social media is unlocking a whole new level of recipes I would have likely never experienced without it. I’m constantly in awe of the creativity of others and what they can do to make a dish go from good to truly special. I’ve noticed, too, that certain foods will get a social media highlight every now and then and be the new and trendy ‘must-try.’ Lately, that trend has been zucchini. Many of us have seen it everywhere and utilized in tons of creative ways. From baked goods to healthier spins on classic dishes, the zucchini craze is real and isn’t going anywhere. 

It’s no surprise this vegetable has accumulated a cult following lately, as the health benefits are pretty much never ending. Filled with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, regularly eating zucchini is said to benefit our eyes, skin, and heart. Not to mention, it can taste pretty dang good! Whether you’ve loved zucchini for years and are simply looking for new ways to incorporate an old favorite, or you’re ready to hop on the bandwagon, read on for 20+ of our favorite zucchini recipes. 

 

The Best Zucchini Recipes to Make for Family Dinners

 

Appetizers & Sides

 

1. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

There’s nothing quite like a side of French fries to complete any meal. This alternative is a healthier option of our favorite tasty meal addition or pre-meal appetizer. 

 

2. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A hot casserole on a breezy night always hits the spot. Not only is this dish full of flavor and protein, but it only takes about 15 minutes to prepare. 

 

3. Zucchini Tots

Kids and parents alike can’t get enough tots at mealtime. These zucchini tots are golden, crispy, and full of tasty cheddar cheese. Frozen tots could never! 

 

4. Zucchini and Roasted Corn Salad 

Incorporating a fresh salad into dinner time has the power to elevate any meal. We love this option because, not only will it be a dinner time favorite, but one that will be gobbled up at your next potluck. 

 

5. Zucchini Soup

Whether you keep this recipe on hand for a rainy day or give it a try ASAP, add it as a side to make a well-rounded meal or have it as a lunch option on its own.

 

6. Baked Zucchini and Skinny Buttermilk Ranch Dip

It’d be hard to find a kid who doesn’t enjoy a good dipping sauce. That means there’s a good chance they’ll give these tasty baked zucchini bits with buttermilk ranch a fair chance. 

 

Main Dishes

 

7. Sausage Stuffed Pizza Zucchini Boats

The best part of zucchini meals is all of the different options. Both parents and kids will love these zucchini boats stuffed with sausage pizza fixings. 

 

8. Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Step aside, Chinese food take-out! We’ve got a recipe that’s even better. This peanut chicken zucchini noodle recipe is not only highly tasty, but it has tons of veggies and proteins—perfect for a well-rounded meal. 

 

9. Zucchini and Sweet Corn Quesadillas

For another Mexican-inspired dish, try this recipe that incorporates earthy zucchini with tasty sweet corn. This is sure to be a new family favorite for the summer and beyond. 

 

10. Zucchini Parmigiana 

You’ve heard of chicken parmigiana, and probably eggplant parmigiana. But, like me, this may be your first time hearing about the zucchini rendition. Whether you know it and love it, or are newly intrigued, we know this recipe won’t disappoint. 

zucchini parmigiana

Source: Heinstirred

 

11. Zucchini Nachos

Mix things up a bit on nacho night! Add these spiralized zucchini pieces for an additional veggie. 

 

12. Zucchini Pizza Bites

For the kiddos who don’t want anything except typical “kid food,” consider giving this recipe a try. This healthy version of a kid staple will be calling their name again and again. 

 

13. Vegan Zucchini Tortillas

Whether the kiddos can be talked into replacing their flour tortillas on taco night with these or not, they’re at least a great substitution for parents!

 

14. Lasagna-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Speaking of zucchini boats, this recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re more of an Italian flavor-lover 0ver Mexican, or both are appealing you, this dish is sure to hit the spot. 

 

15. Zucchini Pancakes

Give the Saturday morning pancake tradition a healthy twist. These pancakes are so light, fluffy, and delicious, you’ll never know they’re good for you! Plus, they’d be a fun twist on breakfast for dinner too. 

 

Sweets & Desserts 

 

16. Zucchini Bread Ice Cream

Can’t get enough zucchini bread but want an even sweeter addition? This recipe might just be calling your name! We love that not only is it is a sweet treat, but it’s paleo friendly and dairy free.

 

17. Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Just when we thought delicious zucchini bread couldn’t get any better, this recipe takes it a step farther by incorporating chocolate chips. When the sweet cravings start coming on, be sure to have the ingredients for this on hand! 

 

18. Harvest Zucchini Muffins

Of all the zucchini recipes here, this might be our favorite. Not only is it perfect for fall by incorporating applesauce and cinnamon, but it’s a great option to reach for all year round. 

 

19. Chocolate Zucchini Bundt Cake

As parents, we sometimes have to get crafty when it comes getting our little ones to eat their vegetables. Perhaps the best solution yet? Masking them with moist, fudgy chocolate cake. 

 

20. Zucchini Roll

Add a summery twist to a classic pumpkin roll with this tasty treat. We can guarantee no one will be able to get enough of the cream cheese filling. 

 

21. Zucchini Cookies

Spend an afternoon in the kitchen as a family whipping up these zucchini cookies with a lemon glaze. They’ll be cooled off and ready for munching on after dinner. 

zucchini cookies

Source: Foodie Crush

 

22. Chocolate Chip Zucchini Banana Bread

Both zucchini bread and banana bread are fantastic on their own. Each is transformed with the addition of chocolate chips. The three blended together, though? A match made in heaven! 

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