Tangy Zucchini Spears
Tangy zucchini spears with a sweet and tangy vinegar-based marinade, perfect as a refreshing side or snack for those who enjoy bold, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine vinegar, honey, celery seed, mustard seed, turmeric, and dry mustard in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the hot marinade over the zucchini spears in a container.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until well infused.
- Drain the zucchini before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the Tangy Zucchini Spears, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the marinade. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar can be used as a substitute. For a sweeter profile, feel free to increase the honey. Ensure the zucchini is cut uniformly for even marination and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Tangy Zucchini Spears make a delightful appetizer or side dish, especially alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. They pair beautifully with Debbie'S Barbecue Sauce and are perfect for picnics or barbecues. Serve them on a platter with a fresh dip, or incorporate them into salads for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Tangy Zucchini Spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. If you want to serve them warm, briefly sauté them in a non-stick pan over medium heat until heated through, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tangy Zucchini Spears contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use larger zucchini for this recipe?
While small zucchini are ideal for this recipe, larger zucchini can be used. Just make sure to cut them into thinner spears to ensure they marinate well and maintain a good texture.
How long can I let the zucchini marinate?
For the best flavor, allow the zucchini to marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator. However, they can be left to infuse for up to 24 hours for a more intense taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal products. The honey can be substituted with agave syrup or maple syrup for a completely vegan version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).