How to Make Zucchini or Courgette Antipasti

Zucchini or Courgette Antipasti

Zucchini or courgette antipasti is perhaps my favorite way to enjoy these vegetables. While zucchini and courgettes are very similar, their texture can slightly differ, but they behave the same when cooked. That’s why they’re included together here.

This dish can be prepared in almost any home kitchen, using an oven, grill, or other heat source. It’s simple to make and can be stored in the fridge for future use or enjoyed right after preparation.

Ingredients:

Zucchini or courgette: Quantity as needed
Cooking oil and olive oil: As required
Coarse salt and black pepper: To taste

Preparation Steps

1. Wash Thoroughly

Before starting, it’s essential to wash the skin of the zucchini or courgette thoroughly since you’ll be eating it.

2. Slice as Desired

After washing, cut the zucchini in your preferred style. Options include:

Halving lengthwise for larger pieces.
Quartering for smaller chunks.
Thin slices along the length for ribbon-like pieces (my favorite!).

3. Seasoning

Place the sliced zucchini in a mixing bowl.
Add oil—start with cooking oil and finish with a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.
Sprinkle with coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any herbs of choice.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.

4. Baking

Arrange the zucchini slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until tender.
Baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the slices. Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness—the zucchini is ready when the skewer easily pierces the flesh.

Optional Additions and Upgrades

Add a pinch of turmeric for a warm, earthy flavor.
Serve with yogurt or tzatziki for a refreshing dip.

Storing Zucchini Antipasti

Let the antipasti cool before serving or packing.
You can package the zucchini with the parchment paper it was baked on for convenience.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for a while or reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven.