Courgette
Courgette/Kamoriki
Availability
They are available all year round with the main growing season from October until May.
Storage and Handling
Store in the refrigerator but use within a couple of days. Handle all fresh produce with care and wash before eating.
History
Courgettes originated in Italy and were popular in the Mediterranean region hundreds of years before they became popular in the western world. The name courgettes originated in France, whilst the name zucchini originated in Italy. In New Zealand we tend to call them courgettes.
Facts
- Some people also refer to courgettes as baby marrows, which indeed they are. Marrows are simply mature or big courgettes
- Courgettes are usually green-skinned but there are yellow-skinned varieties which are less available commercially
- Courgettes are at their best when about 16 - 20 cm long
- Marrows have a coarser texture and are less flavoursome than courgettes
- Scallopini are small and spherical, usually a lighter green than marrows and courgettes
Growing Facts
- Courgettes grow well in warm soil therefore it’s best to plant in summer
- They grow best in a well-drained and sunny spot and require a lot of space
- Courgettes have separate male and female flowers and only the female plants grow fruit
Nutrition Information
Courgettes a source of potassium and vitamin C.
You will find the full Nutrition Information Panel on the New Zealand Food Composition Data website. This website is owned jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This website holds the most comprehensive collection of high-quality nutrient data for New Zealand foods. The Database is managed and maintained by dedicated Plant & Food Research staff.
