Zucchini - the name means 'little sweetness' and, rather than being endearing, refers more to their slightly sweet flavour. One of the Mediterranean's few contributions to the Americas, the seeds were transported by Christopher C and now have become a favourite worldwide.
These tiny members of the squash family have plenty of vitamin C and make a pretty addition to vegetable platters. They may be roasted whole, or stuffed and baked, grated, or sliced and then fried. Even their flowers may be stuffed with a savoury mixture and then fried or poached in broth. They are most plentiful in summer and should be refrigerated and used promptly.