Zucchini vs. Courgette: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Zucchini is a type of green summer squash. Courgette is another name for zucchini, used primarily in British English.
Key Differences
Zucchini is a term commonly used in American English to refer to a long, green vegetable, which is a type of summer squash. Courgette, on the other hand, is the term used in British English for the same vegetable.
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Nov 23, 2023
While zucchini is a word of Italian origin, commonly adopted in North America, courgette is a French term that has been embraced by British English. Both words describe the same vegetable, which is harvested when immature.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
In terms of culinary uses, zucchini and courgette refer to the same vegetable and can be used interchangeably in recipes. Whether called zucchini or courgette, the vegetable is versatile in cooking.
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Nov 23, 2023
The word zucchini is often used in American cookbooks and culinary contexts, while courgette is more likely to appear in British cookbooks and culinary shows, despite both referring to the same item.
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Nov 23, 2023
Nutritionally and botanically, there is no difference between zucchini and courgette. Both terms represent a nutritious vegetable, rich in vitamins, and used in a variety of dishes.
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Nov 23, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Origin of Term
Italian origin, used in American English.
French origin, used in British English.
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Nov 23, 2023
Linguistic Usage
Commonly used in North America.
Predominantly used in the UK and Commonwealth.
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Nov 23, 2023
Culinary Context
Often seen in American recipes and cookbooks.
Featured in British recipes and cookbooks.
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Nov 23, 2023
Botanical Reference
Refers to a type of green summer squash.
Same botanical reference as zucchini.
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Nov 23, 2023
Regional Preference
Preferred term in the United States.
Favored term in the United Kingdom.
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Nov 23, 2023
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Zucchini and Courgette Definitions
Zucchini
A cylindrical vegetable, often used in cooking.
Zucchini bread is a popular snack.
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Nov 21, 2023
Courgette
A versatile cooking ingredient, popular in Europe.
She diced courgette for the ratatouille.
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Nov 21, 2023
Zucchini
A green summer squash native to America.
She grilled zucchini for the vegetable medley.
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Nov 21, 2023
Courgette
A term for green summer squash used in the UK.
Courgette is a staple in her vegetable garden.
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Nov 21, 2023
Zucchini
A type of squash used in various cuisines.
He added zucchini to the stir-fry.
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Nov 21, 2023
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Courgette
A British term for a type of green vegetable.
Courgette soup is a comforting meal.
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Nov 21, 2023
Zucchini
A versatile vegetable, green in color.
Zucchini can be spiralized to make noodles.
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Nov 21, 2023
Courgette
A nutritious and widely-used vegetable in British cuisine.
Courgette fritters are a delicious side dish.
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Nov 21, 2023
Zucchini
A variety of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) having an elongated shape and a smooth, thin, dark green rind.
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Oct 19, 2023
Courgette
A term used in British English for zucchini.
He grew courgettes in his backyard.
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Nov 21, 2023
Zucchini
A courgette; a variety of squash, Cucurbita pepo, which bears edible fruit.
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Oct 19, 2023
Courgette
A marrow squash plant whose fruit are eaten when small; - called also zucchini.
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Oct 19, 2023
Zucchini
A nutritious vegetable often found in gardens.
Their garden produces an abundance of zucchini each summer.
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Nov 21, 2023
Courgette
A small cucumber-shaped vegetable marrow; typically dark green; - called also zucchini.
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is zucchini?
Zucchini is a type of green summer squash popular in American cuisine.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can zucchini and courgette be used interchangeably in recipes?
Yes, since they are the same vegetable, they can be used interchangeably.
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Nov 23, 2023
Are zucchini and courgette the same?
Yes, zucchini and courgette are two names for the same vegetable.
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Nov 23, 2023
How do you choose a good zucchini or courgette?
Look for a firm, unblemished vegetable with vibrant green skin.
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Nov 23, 2023
What dishes are common with zucchini/courgette?
Both are used in a variety of dishes like stir-fries, soups, grilled dishes, and baked goods.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can you freeze zucchini/courgette?
Yes, it can be frozen, though blanching before freezing is recommended.
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Nov 23, 2023
Why are there two names for the same vegetable?
The names reflect linguistic differences between American English (zucchini) and British English (courgette).
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Nov 23, 2023
Can zucchini be eaten raw?
Yes, zucchini can be eaten raw, often in salads or as crudité.
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Nov 23, 2023
How should zucchini be stored?
Zucchini should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably in the refrigerator.
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Nov 23, 2023
Is there a taste difference between zucchini and courgette?
No, there is no taste difference as they are the same vegetable.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can zucchini be used in baking?
Yes, it is often used in breads, muffins, and other baked goods.
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Nov 23, 2023
What is courgette?
Courgette is the British English term for zucchini, a green summer squash.
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Nov 23, 2023
What's the best way to cook courgette?
Courgette can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or used in baking.
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Nov 23, 2023
Can you grow zucchini and courgette at home?
Yes, they are easy to grow in gardens and containers.
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Nov 23, 2023
Are there different varieties of zucchini/courgette?
Yes, there are several varieties, differing in size, shape, and color.
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Nov 23, 2023
How long does courgette last after purchase?
Typically, it lasts for 1-2 weeks when stored properly in the fridge.
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Nov 23, 2023
What's the difference in usage of zucchini in American and British cuisine?
The usage is similar; the difference is more in the naming conventions.
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Nov 23, 2023
Is courgette popular in vegetarian and vegan diets?
Yes, its versatility makes it popular in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
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Nov 23, 2023
What are the nutritional benefits of zucchini?
Zucchini is high in vitamins C and A, fiber, and has a low calorie count.
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Nov 23, 2023
Is courgette a healthy vegetable?
Yes, courgette is low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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