Reportedly, humans have used zucchini squash for at least 5000 years. That’s quite a history. No surprise, zucchini bread is a favorite of many but most recipes call for quite a bit oil and sugar, which significantly increases the calorie content. This recipe only uses 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and is still moist and delicious.

Choose zucchini that are firm and heavy for their size with bright, glossy skin that is free of bruises or nicks. Be sure to leave the skin on for additional nutrients.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about 2 very small squash) *
  • ¾ cup almond flour
  • ¾ cup all-purpose gluten-free flour (I use Bob’s Red Mill)
  • 1 small banana, mashed
  • ¼ cup sweetener (honey granules, date granules)
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tsp baking powder (I use Hain sodium-free and gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum (I use Bob’s Red Mill)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp Himalayan salt
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • ¼ cup egg whites or equivalent in egg replacer

Preparation

Wash zucchini and grate, unpeeled. Place grated zucchini between two paper towels and squeeze to remove most of the liquid. Set aside in paper towels.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix with electric mixer.

Gradually add grated zucchini, continuing to mix well.

Baking

Spray a 4 x 8 inch loaf tin with olive oil. Cut parchment paper to fit the bottom and place in loaf tin. (May choose to use two 3 x 5 inch loaf tins.) Pour mixture into loaf tin or two little loaf tins.

Place in oven pre-heated to 350° F and bake for 45-50 minutes until browned and toothpick comes out clean.

Remove from oven. Cut gently around sides and turn out on a wire rack. Remove parchment paper and turn right-side up again. Allow to cool thoroughly before slicing.

Serving

Slice and serve. Tastes good almost any time: for breakfast, lunch, or dessert at dinner.

* Zucchini squash is very low in calories: one medium raw zucchini has 33 calories, 2.37 grams of protein, 6.1 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of fiber. It is also a source of potassium and Vitamins A and C (USDA National Nutrient Database, which provides a full nutrient profile), one medium raw zucchini has 33 calories, 2.37 grams of protein, 6.1 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber. Raw zucchini has a high water content but it also contains some essential vitamins and minerals—most of which are found in the skin.