Courgettes range in size from about 6-15 cm, and baby courgettes have the sweeter flavour. Look for small, firm courgettes with smooth unblemished skins and a bright colour. Courgettes can be eaten raw or cooked. Finely chopped or grated raw courgettes and carrot can be mixed together and drizzled with French dressing to make a classic simple salad. Sliced raw courgette can be added to a green salad. Courgettes can be fried in butter or steamed and served with lemon juice as a mouthwatering side dish. They can also be included in tarts, risottos, pasta sauces and vegetable bakes and are a main ingredient in the classic Mediterranean vegetable dish, ratatouille.
