Seasonal producelovers know exactly when to reap all of the zucchini benefits.

Here’s what they had to say.

According to the USDA, a 1-cup serving of zucchini offers the following.

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Amax Photo/Getty Images

Improves Gut Microbiome

Yourgut health can get a boost from eatingthis tasty summer squash.

Many veggies and fruits can help us to maintain and support strong bones, including zucchini.

Potassium helps to regulate the electrical impulses that control muscle contractions.

Udon with Seared Beef & Zucchini

Greg DuPree

Carotenoids work by acting as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals, and reducing oxidative stress.

you might also toss zucchini in with your favorite simple sauces.

Roast zucchini and whirl it into hummus, yogurt, or Baba ghanoushinspired dips, as well.

summer-squash-farro-bowl-RS0620DIN006-realsimple

Caitlin Bensel

Shredded zucchini all but disappears into sweet, spiced breads and muffins, too.

Zucchini bread and muffins are tasty homemade baked goodsand easy ways to get the kids eating more produce.

Here are some of our favorite ways to incorporate zucchini into healthy, crowd-pleasing dishes.

Easy pasta recipes - Zucchini Pesto Pasta

Caitlin Bensel

you’re free to make a vegetarian version using tofu instead of the beef, as well.

Add lime and cilantro for more flavor.

It takes just about 35 minutes to whip together for a refreshing and zesty meal.

Summer Squash With Scallions, Chile, and Parsley Recipe

Greg DuPree

Zucchini Pesto Pasta

This zucchini-cashew version of pesto adds dimension to an otherwise everyday pasta dish.

The rice balances out the heat.

And you might top it with unsalted peanuts, finely chopped garlic, and soy sauce for more flavor.

Spicy Summer Squash Stir Fry

Greg DuPree

The choice of whether to eat zucchini raw or cooked comes down to personal preference.

Cooking zucchinireally helps to enhance its natural yet subtle sweetness.

Zucchini can trigger ragweed pollen allergy symptoms in some individuals.

These symptoms typically manifest as throat itchiness and swollen lips, tongue, or mouth.

However, its important to note that these symptoms may only appear after eating raw zucchini.

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