Courgette

Tempura is an iconic dish of Japanese cuisine, attracting with its crispy texture and ease of preparation. This version with sparkling water and Fanta gives the batter airiness and a sweet note that contrasts with the natural taste of vegetables. Vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and cauliflower are quickly deep-fried, remaining juicy inside and crispy outside. It is served with traditional ponzu sauce or sweet chili, adding spiciness to the dish. Historically, tempura was brought to Japan by Portuguese missionaries and has become an integral part of Japanese gastronomy. This recipe variant is a bold interpretation of the classic, combining traditions and unexpected ingredients. An ideal choice for those looking to add freshness and creativity to their menu.

Potato and zucchini pancakes with tuna sauce are an exquisite blend of simplicity and refined taste. This European recipe combines tender potato and zucchini pancakes fried to a golden crust with a refreshing creamy sauce made from tuna, olives, and lemon juice. The pancakes are soft inside and crispy outside, while the tangy sauce adds a vibrant accent. The dish is perfect for a cozy home dinner or a festive table. The recipe's origins draw inspiration from rustic cuisine where potatoes are the base of many dishes, and adding zucchini makes it lighter and richer. Serve hot with fresh herbs and enjoy the harmony of flavors.

Potato and zucchini casserole with cheese is a harmonious combination of tender potatoes, juicy zucchini, and aromatic cheese baked to a golden crust. This dish embodies European gastronomic traditions where simple yet quality ingredients transform into an exquisite treat. Provencal herbs add a special charm, giving the casserole subtle spicy notes. The casserole is perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings and pairs well with fresh vegetables and light sauces. Its soft texture and rich flavor make it a versatile dish for both weekdays and festive tables.

Zucchini rose tartlets are an exquisite appetizer embodying the tenderness and sophistication of European cuisine. Thin strips of puff pastry wrapped around delicate slices of zucchini and soft mozzarella cheese form miniature roses baked to golden perfection. Their taste is a harmonious blend of crispy pastry, creamy cheese texture, and the freshness of zucchini. The history of such dishes roots back to European culinary traditions where presentation plays a vital role. Tartlets are perfect for both formal receptions and cozy family dinners. They can be served hot or cold, complemented with herb sauce or a light salad. It's a wonderful way to turn ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Zucchini and minced meat casserole with vegetables is a harmonious blend of fresh summer vegetables and the rich flavor of meat filling, enhanced by creamy tomato sauce. This recipe exemplifies traditional Russian cuisine, where simplicity of ingredients meets the richness of flavor nuances. Thin strips of zucchini add tenderness to the dish, while bell peppers and tomatoes contribute juiciness and a slight tanginess. Cream makes the texture soft and enveloping, while spices reveal the depth of meat flavor. It is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. The casserole is served slightly cooled, allowing enjoyment of all its flavor nuances. This dish can be complemented with fresh herbs or a light salad to emphasize its naturalness and nutritional value.

Spaghetti with zucchini Neapolitan style is a light yet surprisingly rich dish of Italian cuisine. Its origins trace back to the sunny region of Campania, where fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs form the basis of gastronomy. In this recipe, tender slices of zucchini, lightly sautéed to a golden color, are combined with thin spaghetti to create a perfect balance of textures. Basil adds a fresh, herbal note while Parmesan provides a creamy depth of flavor. The key to this dish is the proper mixing of ingredients and gradually adding pasta cooking water to achieve a velvety sauce consistency. These spaghetti are a great choice for a light dinner on a warm summer evening or a cozy lunch accompanied by a glass of white wine.

The 'Pestraya' pizza is a true celebration of colors and flavors. Its roots lie in the traditions of European cuisine, where simplicity meets sophistication. This recipe will give you a tender dough that is airy and fragrant thanks to yeast. The tomato sauce adds a slight tanginess, while mozzarella brings softness and creaminess. A vegetable medley of eggplant, sweet pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes adds juiciness and richness. Basil leaves add a special note that highlights Italian classics. 'Pestraya' pizza is perfect as a light dinner or treat for friends, as it combines a balance of taste, beauty, and health benefits. It can be served with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade while enjoying every bite of this vibrant gastronomic masterpiece.

Mushroom casserole is a refined dish of European cuisine that combines tender zucchini, aromatic champignons, and sweet cherry tomatoes. The origins of such casseroles trace back to traditional village recipes where vegetables and mushrooms were baked to preserve their rich flavor. Tender zucchini, pre-fried to a golden color, create a soft base, while mushrooms add richness and depth to the taste. Grated hard cheese forms an appetizing crust, and sesame adds a light nutty note. The dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive table, delighting with its simplicity of preparation and rich flavor.

Tartlets with ratatouille are an exquisite combination of crispy pastry and aromatic baked vegetables. This recipe is inspired by classic French ratatouille but presented in an elegant miniature form, perfect for a festive table or a light snack. Eggplant, zucchini, and sweet peppers drizzled with olive oil and baked until tender reveal their rich flavor complemented by the creaminess of soft cheese. The handmade pastry gives the tartlets a special homey warmth. They can be served warm or chilled, enjoying the harmony of flavors and textures. This dish will be a true decoration of the meal, delighting guests with its refined appearance and gastronomic depth.

The recipe was shared with us by chef Viktor Lobzin, PESHI restaurant.

Zucchini pancakes with fried onions and garlic are a delicate and aromatic dish of Russian cuisine that combines simplicity of preparation with exquisite taste. Zucchini adds lightness and juiciness to the batter, while the fried onions and garlic fill it with an appetizing aroma and spiciness. These pancakes are distinguished by a crispy crust and a soft, melting center. They can be served with sour cream, which highlights their delicate flavor. The dish is perfect for breakfast or a light dinner and makes an excellent treat for guests. The popularity of this recipe is due to its versatility and the availability of ingredients. These are not just pancakes but a true delight that brings the warmth and comfort of home cooking.

Zucchini canapés with cream cheese are an elegant appetizer embodying the sophistication of European cuisine. Light, airy rolls of thin zucchini strips conceal a delicate cream cheese filling, complemented by the tanginess of gherkins and the refinement of artichokes. Sun-dried tomatoes add brightness to the flavor, while garlic and parsley provide aromatic depth. This recipe is a perfect blend of freshness and rich taste, suitable for both buffets and festive tables.

Alexey Fomichev, brand chef of Menza, shared the recipe with us.

Korean vegetable pancakes, or pajeon, are crispy fritters filled with fresh vegetables and herbs, traditionally served with a flavorful sauce. Their history is rooted in Korean cuisine, where they are known as a popular street food and home dining dish. The taste of pajeon is rich and diverse: the sweetness of apple combines with the mild spiciness of green onion and the freshness of carrot, while the golden crust makes each bite deliciously crispy. This recipe allows you to enjoy a harmony of textures and flavors, especially when paired with spicy sesame soy sauce. Pajeon can be served as an appetizer or main dish, perfectly complementing meals with other Korean delicacies.

Zucchini casserole with tomatoes, peppers, and cheese is a light yet rich dish that embodies the best features of Russian cuisine. It can be seen as a modern interpretation of vegetable casseroles made in ancient times using seasonal products. Tender layers of zucchini, sweet peppers, and juicy tomatoes baked under a golden crust of aromatic cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish is perfect for a light dinner or healthy lunch and its vibrant colors will adorn any table.