Entity: ZUCCHINI
Zucchini is a dark green summer squash, considered an immature fruit, borrowed from Italy. The term is derived from the Italian word 'zucchino', a diminutive of 'zucca' meaning 'gourd', 'marrow', 'pumpkin', or 'squash'. Zucchini can refer to both the vegetable itself and the plant that bears it.
Zucchini
Etymology
The term zucchini is the plural of zucchino, a diminutive of zucca, meaning 'gourd', 'marrow', 'pumpkin', or 'squash' in Italian. It exists in both feminine (zucchina) and masculine (zucchino) forms.
Definition
Zucchini is a smooth usually cylindrical dark green summer squash, considered an immature fruit. It is a versatile vegetable used in various culinary dishes.
Historical Context
Zucchini was borrowed from Italy, along with its name, and has become a popular ingredient in many cuisines worldwide.
Cultural Significance
Zucchini plays a significant role in Italian cuisine and is a staple in dishes like zucchini fritters, zucchini bread, and ratatouille.
Related Concepts
Zucchini is related to other summer squashes such as yellow squash and pattypan squash.
See Also
- [Zucchini Recipes](link to zucchini recipes)
- [Italian Cuisine](link to Italian cuisine)
A versatile summer squash with a smooth, cylindrical shape, typically dark green in color, used in various culinary dishes.