Zesty Fried Courgette and Tomatoes (on Lemony Herb Yoghurt)

Get ready to tantalise your taste buds with a symphony of flavours that’ll leave you craving more – introducing my irresistible Zesty Fried Courgette vegan side dish!

Now, it may seem like there’s a lot going on here, but I promise, this is actually one of those really easy courgette recipes that you will be making several times a week (again, I promise!)

Imagine this – your taste buds awaken to the sizzling symphony of thick courgette slices, lovingly fried to a golden perfection in a dance of olive oil and heat. Each bite unveils a slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, zesty heart. But that’s not all….enter the blistered tomatoes, nature’s sweet jewels, kissed by the essence of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then adorned with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a pinch of salt. Their burst of tangy juiciness provides the perfect contrast to the courgettes’ satisfying crunch.

And the excitement continues with my vinaigrette, a harmonious blend of extra virgin olive oil and the lively zest of lemon, lifted by the dill and mint. A touch of maple syrup weaves its subtle sweetness into the mix, creating a melody of flavours that dances on your palate.

The star of the show, at least in my opinion, is the Lemony Herb Yoghurt. It takes centre stage with its velvety allure. Greek-style vegan yoghurt, boasting a rich and creamy texture, is transformed into a dreamy concoction of garlic, lemon zest, and the herbaceous charm of dill. A pinch of salt then ties everything together, creating a dip that’s a match made in culinary heaven.

Is Courgette The Same as Zucchini?

In a word, yes. Courgette and Zucchini are indeed the exact same vegetable. The term “zucchini” is commonly used in North America and Italy, while “courgette” is the term more commonly used in British English and other parts of Europe.

Do You Peel The Skin Off Courgette?

Whether or not to peel the skin off a courgette (zucchini) depends on personal preference and the specific dish you’re preparing. In many recipes, such as this one, the skin of a courgette is perfectly edible and adds both flavour and texture to the dish. It also contains additional nutrients and fibre.

If the courgette is young and tender, the skin is usually nice and thin and doesn’t require peeling.

However, if the courgette is larger and the skin is tougher, you might consider peeling it to achieve a more delicate texture (especially if you’re concerned about the texture of the dish or if the recipe calls for it).

Can Courgette Upset Your Stomach?

In general, courgettes (zucchini) are considered to be a relatively mild and easy-to-digest vegetable, and they do not typically cause stomach upset for most people. However, individual reactions to foods can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to certain foods than others.

If you find that courgettes or any other food tend to upset your stomach, it could be due to a variety of factors, such as:

1. Digestive Sensitivity: Some individuals may have a mild intolerance to certain vegetables, including courgettes, which could lead to digestive discomfort.
   
2. Preparation and Cooking: The way courgettes are prepared and cooked can influence how easily they are digested. Overcooking or undercooking, excessive consumption, or consuming them in very large portions might contribute to stomach upset.
   
3. Individual Tolerance: People have varying levels of tolerance to different foods. What upsets one person’s stomach may not affect another person in the same way.
   
4. Other Ingredients: Courgettes are often used in combination with other ingredients in recipes. If the dish contains other components that are known to cause stomach upset for you, it could contribute to an overall uncomfortable feeling.
   
5. Underlying Conditions: If you have specific gastrointestinal conditions or sensitivities, certain foods might exacerbate your symptoms.

If you consistently experience stomach upset after consuming courgettes, and if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues and receive personalised advice.

Are Courgettes Healthier Than Cucumber?

Courgettes (zucchini) and cucumbers are both nutritious vegetables, and each has its own unique set of health benefits. It’s not necessarily a matter of one being “healthier” than the other, but rather understanding the nutritional qualities they offer.

Courgettes (Zucchini):

• Courgettes are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a good choice for those looking to manage their weight or reduce carb intake.
• They are a good source of dietary fiber, which can support digestive health and help you feel full.
• Courgettes contain vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
• They also contain antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.

Cucumbers:

• Cucumbers are extremely hydrating due to their high water content, which can be refreshing and help with hydration, especially in hot weather.
• They are very low in calories, making them a great option for snacking or adding to salads without significantly impacting your calorie intake.
• Cucumbers also provide vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.
• They contain compounds called cucurbitacins that have potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Ingredients

Fried Courgettes:

• Courgette (Zucchini): The star of the dish, courgette adds a mild and slightly nutty flavor with a tender texture. When fried, it develops a crispy outer layer while maintaining a soft interior.
• Olive Oil: The olive oil not only serves as the cooking medium but also imparts a rich, savory flavour to the courgettes, enhancing their taste and contributing to a satisfying mouthfeel.

Blistered Tomatoes:

• Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with juicy sweetness when blistered, creating a burst of vibrant flavor. They also add a variety of textures, from the tender interior to the slightly caramelized skin.
• Olive Oil: Just like with the courgettes, olive oil plays a dual role here, enriching the taste of the tomatoes and facilitating the blistering process.
• Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy and slightly sweet note that balances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious contrast of flavors.
• Fresh Basil: The aromatic basil provides a refreshing and fragrant herbal undertone that elevates the overall taste profile.

Vinaigrette:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of the vinaigrette, it contributes a smooth and fruity richness to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: The citrusy tang of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and provides a zesty kick.
• Fresh Dill and Mint: These herbs infuse the vinaigrette with a burst of fresh and lively flavors, adding complexity to each bite.
• Lemon Zest: The zest intensifies the lemony essence, lending a vibrant and aromatic note.
• Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness from the maple syrup balances the acidity of the lemon juice and ties the flavors together.

Lemony Herb Yoghurt:

• Greek-Style Yoghurt: The creamy yoghurt adds a velvety and cooling element to the dish, providing a contrast to the crispy courgettes and tender tomatoes.
• Garlic: The minced garlic introduces a subtle, savoury bite that enhances the overall savoury experience.
• Lemon Zest: Just as with the vinaigrette, lemon zest brightens the flavours and adds a zingy twist.
• Fresh Dill: The dill complements the yoghurt with its herbaceous aroma, contributing a layer of depth to the dish.

Each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully selected to create a symphony of flavours and textures that play off each other harmoniously, resulting in a delightful and well-balanced dish.